Rotary helps kids learn
Rotary Supports Backpack Project

Rotary of Amherst Boosts Backpack Project
August 8th, 2026 marks the 16th year that members of the Rotary Club of Amherst, along with members of the UMass Hockey Team, filled approximately 150 backpacks with school supplies during their biweekly luncheon at the Inn on Boltwood.
Supplies packed include notebooks, pencils, rulers and markers, crayons, pens, pencils, colored pencils, glue sticks, erasers, pocket folders, pencils, and sharpeners.
Supplies packed include notebooks, pencils, rulers and markers, crayons, pens, pencils, colored pencils, glue sticks, erasers, pocket folders, pencils, and sharpeners.
The backpacks were then delivered to the Superintendent’s office of the Amherst Regional Public Schools, where they will be distributed to students from low-income families before the start of school.
"It didn't take a lot of effort, and the reward of being able to give 150 backpacks to kids who need them is really great," said Rotarian Ellen Carey, who organized the supply purchases.
The Rotary contribution is part of a greater effort the schools are making to provide supplies for children who need them.