For many kids in the Caldwells, it’s hard to imagine the first day of school without a new backpack brimming with supplies.

But there are families in these towns and surrounding communities who will struggle to check all the items off a child’s classroom supply list.

Help homeless and needy families by supporting two collections, one by the Interfaith Hospitality Network and the other by Caldwells Patch.

While shopping for your own children and grandchildren, pick up extra supplies for those in need. Backpacks, notebooks, binders, pencils, pens, and crayons are just some of the items suggested.

Interfaith Hospitality Network School Supply Drive

Items can be brought to several locations:

• Drop off at North Caldwell Summer Fun with campers
• North Caldwell Pool
• Notre Dame Parish Center
• My Daughter’s Closet in Caldwell
• 21 Squire Hill Road in North Caldwell

The collections run through Friday, August 10. If you have any questions, contact Peggy Caprio at pcaprio@optonline.net.

Caldwells Patch School Supply Drive

Patch will be at the Caldwell Farmers Market on Friday, August 17, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Drop off school supplies at the Patch tent at the market and meet Local Editor Teresa Akersten and other members of the Patch staff. There will be Patch giveaways as a thank you for your donation.

The Caldwell Farmers Market is located in the Smull Avenue Parking Lot, behind the shops between Smull Avenue and Personete Street.

For more information, call Teresa Akersten at 973-289-1826 or email teresa.akersten@patch.com.