Guidelines
We are asking for a donation of a brand-new backpack and grade-specific school supplies for each student you adopt. For your convenience, we have included the school supply lists recommended by Fairfax County Public Schools for each grade level. Please refer to these lists when shopping to ensure students receive the items they need.
When you drop off your donation, it is required that you include a securely attached tag with:
- The student’s Roonga ID, and
- Their caseworker’s name.
Important Reminders:
- Check the student’s region. Please make sure you note which region the student lives in so you know which regional office to use for drop-off.
- Coordinate directly with the caseworker. Please contact the caseworker for the student you adopt, not the main program number, for questions, drop-off details, and confirmations.
- Donate new supplies only: All backpacks and school supplies must be brand new—we’re unable to accept used or gently used items, regardless of their condition.
- The Deadline is August 7: Drop off or deliver the backpacks and school supplies to the caseworker by appointment only by Friday, August 7, 2026. We kindly ask that you do not just show up to the office without first speaking to the assigned caseworker.
Thank you for helping Fairfax County children start the school year equipped, encouraged, and supported. Your generosity makes a real difference in their lives.
Fairfax County Public Schools Recommended Supplies
Elementary School (PreK-6th grade):
- 12-count #2 Pencils (Ticonderoga Brand Recommended)
- 24-count Crayons (Crayola Brand Preferred)
- 12-count Colored Pencils
- 10-count Broad Line Marker Pack (Crayola Brand Preferred)
- 2-pack Dry Erase Markers (Expo Brand Preferred)
- 4-count Glue Sticks (Elmers Brand Preferred)
- 5-inch Scissors
- 2-count Rubber Erasers
- 1 Small Pencil Sharpener
- 2-count Plastic Folders (with Prongs)
- 2-count Composition Notebook (Wide Ruled)
- 1 Pencil Pouch
- 1 Set of Wired Headphones (Over-Ear, No Bluetooth)
Middle and High School (7th-12th Grade):
- 12-count #2 Mechanical Pencils
- 12-count Colored Pencils (Crayola Brand Preferred)
- 2-count Dry Erase Markers (Expo Brand Preferred)
- 2-count Rubber Erasers
- 6-Pack Plastic File Folders (2-Pocket, Assorted, Poly Prong)
- 2-count Highlighter
- 2-count Ballpoint Pens (Black or Blue)
- 1 Pencil Pouch
- 1 Set of Wired Headphones (No Bluetooth)
Thank you for helping Fairfax County children start the school year confident, prepared, and supported.
This article posting is part of The Volunteer Post Newsletter for current and potential volunteers, sponsors and donors interested in supporting children and families in crisis. Learn more about Fairfax County Department of Family Services' Volunteer & Partner Services Program (VPS).
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