Operation Backpack
2nd annual Stuff‑A‑Bus event
Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 12pm - 5pm outside Staples in the Oshawa Centre parking lot.
Our goal is to stuff the bus with donated school supplies!
Operation Backpack is a Durham‑wide initiative that ensures students across Durham Region start the school year with a backpack and essential school supplies. The program is a fantastic collaboration between Ignite Durham Learning Foundation (IDLF), Simcoe Hall Settlement House, United Way Durham Region (UW), Durham Children's Aid Foundation (DCAF), St. Andrew's Community Food Bank & Durham Community Health Centre (DCHC).
Thanks to this incredible partnership, over 5,000 backpacks were distributed to students last year, helping reduce financial stress for families and ensuring students feel confident and ready to learn on the first day of school.
Stuff‑A‑Bus is a fun, visible way for the community to get involved — inviting shoppers to donate new supplies on‑site while learning more about how Operation Backpack supports local students and families. We would love to have your station there to help spread the word, broadcast live (if possible), or help share the story behind this impactful initiative.
We will have a Durham Ways bus on site to stuff with school supplies and as an extra bit of fun, we'll have washable paint to decorate the outside of the bus!