Collecting School Supplies

Outreach is organizing a school supplies collection to support Mars Home for Youth, running from July 14 to August 18. This initiative aims to provide essential school items to children and teens at Mars Home for Youth, ensuring they have the necessary tools for a successful academic year.

MHY Family Services was founded in 1878 by the women of the United Presbyterian churches of Pittsburgh and Allegheny City. In 1996, the organization was reincorporated as Mars Home for Youth as the mission continued to evolve to meet the needs of at-risk youth through residential and community-based services.

Your participation can help to support the mission of MHY for the 2024-2025 school year and make a significant impact on the lives of these young students. By donating supplies, you help create a positive and empowering learning environment. Simple items like notebooks, pens, pencils, backpacks, and calculators can make a world of difference for these students, providing them with the confidence and resources they need to excel in their studies.

To contribute, please refer to the detailed list below. This list is curated to ensure that every donated item meets the specific needs of the students at Mars Home for Youth. Whether you choose to donate a few items or an entire set of supplies, every contribution is valuable and appreciated.

Donations can be dropped off at designated collection points, conveniently located for your ease. The collection points will be accepting donations throughout the collection period, giving you ample time to participate and make a difference.

Wish List

  • plastic reusable water bottles
  • tissues
  • copy paper
  • colored file folders
  • 2 pocket folders
  • manila folders
  • notebooks without metal
  • paint for art class
  • mechanical pencils & lead
  • small white composition notebooks
  • dry erase markers (all colors)
  • scotch tape
  • masking tape
  • tablet paper
  • laminating sheets
  • stress balls & fidget toys
  • batteries – all sizes
  • squeezable applesauce
  • Pop tarts
  • Cup of noodles
  • oatmeal packets
  • jerky
  • individual bags of cookies, chips, peanut butter crackers, granola
  • pretzels, fruit snacks, goldfish, protein & breakfast bars