Every child deserves the chance to learn.

Operation School Supply helps level the playing field for kids whose families need a little help preparing for the school year. You can put notebooks, folders, markers, and more directly into the hands of kids and help them begin the school year on a high note! Operation School Supply also helps stock local school pantries with school supplies and hygiene items for teachers, counselors, and administrators to provide to students in need throughout the school year.

Drop off supplies from July 14 - Aug. 13 at UWYC's offices, 2173 Overland Ave, any Mattress King store, or any of these participating businesses and organizations:

Billings locations: Billings Family YMCA, Billings Public Library, Billings Federal Credit Union, Archies Plumbing

Laurel locations: Albertsons, Altana, Catepillar, CHS, Community Hope, Eagles Bar, First Interstate Bank, Laurel Public Library, Western Security Bank, Woods Power Grip

School supply costs aren't cool

Last year, we collected 25,000 supply items and distributed supplies and backpacks to more than 700 families from more than 20 schools.

• The national-average costs of outfitting one kid with school supplies in 2024 was about $600. 
• Roughly 40% of students in Billings Public Schools qualify for free or reduced lunch. About 600 students identify as homeless, and more likely don’t report their status. 
• 94% of teachers surveyed across the nation spent their own money on school supplies. Most spent between $500 and $700. 
• Between 2021 and 2024, the average costs of school supplies about 25%.

Meeting local needs

Financial donations help us buy supplies that are needed most and respond to yearly demand in our communities. Click the red button to donate!

Click here for Billings 2025-26 supply lists.

Click here for Laurel 2025-26 supply lists. 

Each year, we consistently need: