Backpack Giveaway

Mary Nelson's Annual "Youth Day Celebration"

REGISTRATION OPEN

Annual School Supply Giveaway

Saturday, August 15, 2026

11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Meachem Field, Syracuse, NY

Mary Nelson’s Annual Youth Day Celebration is a free, full-day community event — backpacks and school supplies for every registered student, plus food, music, family resources, and on-site community partners. This year, SU Football Coach Fran Brown is donating 1,000 bikes. All are welcome!

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Registration closes the day before the event. All attendees must register.

2026 Back 2 School Supply Giveaway flyer
Thank you for participating in the Backpack School Supply Giveaway organized by The Mary Nelson Youth Center. Before you proceed, we kindly ask you to carefully read and understand the following disclaimer:

Non-Profit Nature: The Mary Nelson Youth Center is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting youth in our community. The Backpack School Supply Giveaway is solely intended to assist students in need by providing essential school supplies. We do not engage in any commercial activities related to this event.

Limited Supplies: While we strive to accommodate as many students as possible, the availability of school supplies is limited. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that all participants will receive a backpack or specific items.

Eligibility: This giveaway is open to students in Onondaga County. Participants must provide valid identification or proof of enrollment to receive school supplies.

First-Come, First-Served Basis: The distribution of school supplies will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to increase their chances of receiving supplies.

No Cash Equivalents: The school supplies provided during this giveaway are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or other items.

Assumption of Responsibility: Participants in the Backpack School Supply Giveaway understand and agree that The Mary Nelson Youth Center, its volunteers, and associated partners shall not be held responsible for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur during the event.

Accuracy of Information: The Mary Nelson Youth Center strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information about the giveaway. However, we reserve the right to make changes to the event, including date, time, location, and eligibility criteria, if necessary. Any updates will be communicated through our official channels.

Photographic Consent: By participating in the giveaway, attendees grant The Mary Nelson Youth Center permission to capture photographs and videos during the event. These images may be used for promotional purposes, including social media, website, or other media outlets.

Donations and Sponsorship: The success of this giveaway is made possible through the generous contributions of our donors and sponsors. Their support enables us to provide these essential supplies to the community. If you are interested in supporting our cause, please contact us to discuss potential donations or sponsorship opportunities.

Event Cancellation: While we do not anticipate any cancellations, unforeseen circumstances may arise that necessitate the cancellation or rescheduling of the Backpack School Supply Giveaway. In such cases, we will make every effort to notify participants promptly through our official communication channels.

By participating in the Backpack School Supply Giveaway, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the above disclaimer, and you agree to adhere to its terms. We appreciate your cooperation and support in making this event a success and look forward to assisting students in need within our community.

For any inquiries or further information, please contact us.
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Cornerstone Event

Youth Day Celebration & Backpack Giveaway

Since 2002, our community’s back-to-school kickoff—free backpacks, school supplies, and a full day of family resources and celebration.

Launched in 2002 in honor of Darryl Patterson, this annual celebration has grown from a neighborhood effort
into one of Central New York’s largest back-to-school drives. Each August, thousands of students receive
ready-to-learn backpacks and essentials—plus access to clothing, food, and wrap-around support.

  • Built for students: grade-appropriate supplies, resources, and encouragement to start strong.
  • Built for families: community partners on-site for food, clothing, health & education support.
  • Built to last: year-round distribution continues after the main event, so no child is left behind.

Fast Facts

First Year: 2002

Peak Attendance: ~16,000 (2019)

Recent Scale: ~6,000 registered (2024)

Adapted for 2020: Virtual distribution with schools

Location: Syracuse’s South Side & community parks

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