We launched our official "BUILD-A-BACKPACK" program in 2008-09 and it was a great success! As with all of Direct Effect's programs, this one is hands on, giving you the opportunity to build a backpack for a child in need. Backpacks are distributed throughout the Chicago Public School system with homeless students being our first priority. Please see "ingredient" lists below. You will find 2, one for primary grades, one for upper grades. Once filled, we asked that they be dropped off to our Kids Closet location. We are able to arrange pick us for large donations (over 50) which are within or near the city of Chicago.
Please give us a call at 312.296.5311 if you would like to arrange a pick up!
Chicago, IL 60618
312.296.5311
Pre-K through Kindergarten
- Large Pencils
- Large Crayons
- Washable Markers
- Scissors
- Glue sticks
- Kleenex, paper towels
1st through 3rd
- Pencils
- Pocket Folders
- Notebook
- Crayons
- Washable Markers
- Pencil-top Erasers
- Supply Box
- Glue Sticks
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Kleenex, paper towels
4th through 6th
- Pencils
- Pocket Folders
- Notebook
- Crayons
- Washable Markers
- Pencil-top Erasers
- Supply Box
- Glue Sticks
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Watercolor Paints
- Sketchpads
- Kleenex, paper towels
7th through 8th
- Pencils
- Pocket Folders
- Notebook
- Crayons
- Washable Markers
- Pencil-top Erasers
- Supply Box
- Glue Sticks
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Spiral Notebooks
- Wide-ruled notebook paper
- Additional folders
- Calculator
- Dictionary
- Assignment notebook
- Ruler
- Kleenex, paper towels
Drop Off Location (M-F: 9-6 & Sat 9-5)
4044 N Lincoln AveChicago, IL 60618
312.296.5311
Additional Information
Get 4 FREE Brookfield Zoo tickets for each backpack donated! Tickets are available on-site and will be distributed immediately upon receiving your contribution.Spread the Word!
Thank you for your support! Please follow us on Facebook or Twitter to get updates on our future programs.
We realize, backpacks are the most expensive item on the lists. If you have a used one in LIKE NEW condition, you are welcome to use it! You can also check the dollar stores or the store Tuesday Morning as they often offer great deals on backpacks as does EBAY if you like to shop on line!
If you can send us an email to directeffect@ameritech.net after you drop off, it will help us to keep track of the number of backpacks donated.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS AT ALL, PLEASE CALL 312.296.5311 FOR ANSWERS!!
Thank you for your support! Please follow us on Facebook or Twitter to get updates on our future programs.