The Town of Gilbert is again calling on neighbors, businesses and civic groups to help fill classroom shelves before students return. The annual Stock the Classroom drive opens July 20 and continues through August 3, 2026, with donated supplies directed to Gilbert Public Schools and the Higley Unified School District.
Why the drive matters locally
Teachers across the East Valley commonly supplement classroom supplies from their own wallets. The town says community contributions help reduce that out-of-pocket burden and make sure students have essential learning tools on day one. Organizers point to last year’s results as an example of local impact: volunteers and donors delivered more than $9,800 worth of school supplies and $2,500 in monetary donations to support classrooms.
What to donate and how
Items being requested include basic school staples and classroom materials. Drop-off locations are listed online at the town’s information page, and donors who prefer to shop online can use an Amazon wishlist that sends items directly to the town for distribution.
- Pencils
- Notebooks
- Folders
- Glue sticks
- Crayons (16-count only)
- Colored pencils
- Dry erase boards and markers
- Clorox wipes
- Backpacks
- Reusable water bottles
- And other classroom essentials
“Stock the Classroom aims to ensure every child has access to the tools they need to learn, grow, and succeed,” organizers said in the town announcement.
How Gilbert fits a statewide pattern
Across Arizona, municipalities and nonprofit groups increasingly run supply drives as districts confront tight budgets and rising classroom needs. Gilbert’s program is one of several local efforts that try to ensure teachers are not left buying basics themselves. For residents who want to help but lack time to shop, the town’s online wishlist provides a convenient route to contribute.
To find the nearest drop-off point or access the Amazon wishlist, visit: gilbertaz.gov/StockTheClassroom. The Town of Gilbert will collect donated items from July 20 through August 3 and distribute them to participating schools.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drive dates | July 20 – August 3, 2026 |
| Benefiting districts | Gilbert Public Schools; Higley Unified School District |
| Last year's results | More than $9,800 in supplies; $2,500 in donations |
Local volunteers and donors who can contribute are encouraged to do so early in the two-week window to allow time for sorting and distribution before classes resume.
