August 31, 2026
As students, teachers, and families across North Carolina prepare for a new school year, local United Ways are stepping up to help ensure every child has the support they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
The back-to-school season brings excitement and opportunity, but it can also create financial strain for families already balancing tight budgets. From school supplies and backpacks to nutritious meals and essential resources, local United Ways are working alongside volunteers, businesses, schools, and community partners to help students start the year prepared and confident.
Across our state, United Ways are leading a variety of efforts to meet local needs. For example, United Way of Greater High Point's Backpack Program provides fully stocked backpacks and school supplies to thousands of students through a network of community partners serving children and families throughout the region.
In Lincoln County, United Way of Lincoln County's "Stuff the Bus" campaign brings together local businesses, healthcare partners, schools, and community members to collect school supplies for students and teachers, helping ease the burden of back-to-school expenses for families in need.
These are just two examples of the many ways local United Ways are making a difference. Across North Carolina, you'll find school supply drives, backpack distributions, teacher resource programs, food assistance initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and other community-led efforts designed to support student success both inside and outside the classroom.
No matter where you live, there is likely a local United Way working to strengthen educational opportunities and create brighter futures for children and families in your community.
I encourage you to learn more about the incredible work happening in your area and discover ways to get involved. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, advocate, or simply help spread the word, your support can make a meaningful impact. Get started by visiting the NC United Way Directory to find the closest location near you.
And if you or someone you know are seeking back-to-school programs to receive assistance from, our information and referral program, NC 211, can help. It's free, multilingual, confidential, and available 24/7/365. Simply dial 2-1-1 or (888) 892-1162 or visit NC211.org and a Community Resource Specialist will be glad to help.
Together, we can help ensure every student across North Carolina starts the school year ready to succeed.
Thank you for all you do to support our communities.
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Brittany Pruitt Fletcher
President & CEO
United Way of North Carolina