CONTACT
Lea Devereaux 
lea.devereaux@unitedwaydenver.org
720-518-6222 

The annual Back to School Bash brings together volunteers, sponsors and community partners to provide essential supplies to Metro Denver students and families. 

DENVER – More than 700 students will start the school year with backpacks full of essential supplies, following Mile High United Way’s annual Back to School Bash on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026. More than 150 volunteers helped distribute backpacks, notebooks, pencils and other supplies to students and families across Metro Denver. 

In 2025, according to the National Retail Federation, families with children in elementary through high school planned to spend an average of $858 on clothing, shoes, school supplies and electronics. For many families, these costs can place additional strain on an already tight household budget, leaving many parents to choose between everyday essentials and the supplies their children need for the first day. 

“There’s something powerful about watching a child pick out a new backpack. It’s a small moment that tells them they matter and that this community sees them. By working alongside our school districts, we ensure every student walks into the classroom with all the supplies they need to succeed. That’s what our neighbors, volunteers and generous donors make possible,” said Christine Benero, president and CEO of Mile High United Way. 

Every student deserves the excitement of a new school year and the confidence to walk in ready. Mile High United Way works year-round to connect local families with resources that help children thrive in the classroom and beyond.  

Back to School Bash event sponsors: 9News, Vectra Bank, Kaiser Permanente, The TJX Foundation, U.S. Bank, KPMG Family for Literacy and ULA. 

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About Mile High United Way  

Mile High United Way, the first United Way in the world, was founded in Denver in 1887. Working side by side with the community, Mile High United Way takes on critical human services issues facing our region. Our united approach changes the odds for all children, families and individuals in our community, so that we all can succeed. 

Learn more at www.unitedwaydenver.org. Follow us on social media: @UnitedWayDenver.