Here’s where families can find free backpacks, school supplies and resource fairs as the new school year approaches
School supplies
Back-to-school costs can add up fast. Here are several Houston-area events offering free backpacks, school supplies and family resources.
Note: Availability is typically first-come, first-served and may be limited while supplies last. Some events require kids to be present to receive items.
When: Saturday, July 25 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Launch Family Entertainment, 13331 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077
What to know: Organizers say the event will distribute 3,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. Families will also get free admission to Launch during the event, with access to attractions (including trampolines and other activities).
Details: Backpacks are available while supplies last; children must be present to receive a backpack.
Verizon retailer Round Room “School Rocks” Backpack Giveaway (Houston-area locations)
When: Sunday, July 26 | Starts at 1 p.m. (lines expected before start)
Where (Houston area):
3420 7th Street, Bay City
1140 North FM 3083 West Road, Suite 300, Conroe
27117 Fulshear Bend Dr., Ste 200, Fulshear
3351 Clear Lake City Blvd., Ste 600, Houston
What to know: Round Room, a Verizon authorized retailer, says it is giving away $3 million worth of free backpacks nationwide during its annual “School Rocks” event.
When: Monday, July 27 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Pasadena Convention Center, 7902 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena
What to know: The City of Pasadena is collecting donated school supplies for students. Community members will then deliver the supplies throughout the day. Volunteers will receive and organize the donations.
HISD “Ready, Set, School!” Back-to-School Resource Fair & School Supply Giveaway
When: Saturday, Aug. 1 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Delmar Fieldhouse, 2020 Mangum Road, Houston, TX 77092
What to know: Houston ISD says families can receive free backpacks and school supplies, plus free routine health screenings.
Extras: District teams including enrollment, transportation and nutrition will be available to help families get ready for the school year.
This is a statewide drawing (not an in-person Houston backpack event), but it may still help some families.
What: The firm says it will award 15 Texas residents a $200 gift card through a random drawing.
Deadline: Runs through 10 a.m. CT on Aug. 19 (per the announcement).
Send details (date, time, address, what’s being given away, and any registration requirements) to Desk@kprc.com and we can update this list.
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About the AuthorChristian Hudspeth
Christian Hudspeth is a Houston native who joined KPRC 2 News in December 2025. Christian began his news career at KTRK in 2022 before moving to newsrooms in Waco, Texas (KXXV), Las Vegas, Nevada (KTNV), and now back to H-Town. He earned his BA at the University of Houston Jack J. Valenti School of Communication in 2023.