Catholic Charities is partnering with Strong Kids Safe Kids to host a Back to School Drive from July 17 to August 12, 2026. Items can be dropped off at any of the following locations:
• Chamberlain Acres Garden Center and Florist
• Chemung County Library District (Big Flats, Horseheads, Steele Memorial, West Elmira locations)
• Corning Community College – Elmira Campus
• Copy Express
• Department of Aging
• Mr. Panosian’s Famous Shoes
• The Purple Iris Boutique, Horseheads
• Tranquility Beauty Shop
• Wallin Insurance
Donations will also be accepted at the Catholic Charities Main Office (215 E Church St, Elmira): Monday–Friday, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm.
Backpacks and school supply starter kits will be distributed at the Annual Strong Kids Safe Kids event on August 22 from 11 am – 2 pm at the Chemung County Fairgrounds. No registration is required. New backpacks will be available for students in kindergarten through 6th grade.
SCHUYLER DETAILS:
Catholic Charities is hosting a Back to School Drive from July 17 to August 12, 2026. Items can be dropped off at any of the following locations:
• Famous Brands
• Quinlan’s Pharmacy, Montour Falls
• The Hi-Lites
• Visions Federal Credit Union
• Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Visitor Center at 214 N. Franklin, Watkins Glen: open every day, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
• Watkins Glen Public Library
Donations will also be accepted at Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry (112 10th Street, Watkins Glen): Tuesdays & Fridays, 9 am – 2 pm, Thursdays, noon- 4 pm.
Backpacks and school supply starter kits will be distributed at the Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry on August 25, 27, and 28. Registration is required. New backpacks will be available for students in kindergarten to 12th grade who reside in Schuyler County.