Oshkosh Back 2 School Fair
Each August, the Oshkosh Community Back 2 School Fair (B2SF) helps local students start the school year strong. Since its founding in 1998—when just 50 students were served—the B2SF has grown to support more than 1,200 low-income Oshkosh students annually. Any remaining supplies are used to support students on a waitlist.
Held at Oshkosh North High School, the B2SF is the largest coordinated effort in Oshkosh to support as many students and families as possible. It is organized by a planning committee of more than 20 service providers, educators, volunteers, and agency partners.
Oshkosh Area United Way (OAUW) has resumed its role as administrative and fiscal sponsor, managing donations, distributing funds, and supporting logistical coordination. This helps the B2SF run efficiently and equitably—getting the right resources to the right families at the right time. OAUW also provides funding for over 500 Rogan’s Shoes vouchers (valued up to $40 each) and takes an active role in outreach, planning, and communications.
Empowering Oshkosh Students to Start Strong Every School Year
The B2SF gives area families facing financial hardship a welcoming space to access essential back-to-school items. Students leave with more than just supplies—they leave with confidence.
Eligible families take part in a unique shopping-style experience where students can choose what they need, including:
- Backpacks
- School supplies
- Hygiene products
- Clothing*
- Shoe vouchers for Rogan’s Shoes (can be combined with Rogan’s Buy One, Get One Half Off promotion)
- Onsite haircuts
- Additional information about local programs and services is available—and in some cases, families can register or sign up on-site. For example, last year students were able to get their bus passes at the event.
This collaboration simplifies the supply distribution process for agencies, streamlines pickup for families, and reduces duplication of community resources.
*Each child receives a top and bottom—sometimes two tops if sizes are available. Families who are not already registered with the Community Clothes Closet (CCC) can do so during the event. They’ll also be referred to CCC for socks and underwear.
Powered by Volunteers and Community Support
Dozens of local volunteers help create a welcoming, efficient experience by supporting everything from fundraising and shopping to check-in, haircut coordination, and cleanup. Their energy and compassion help set the tone for an uplifting day families remember.
“We were struggling to afford even the basics. This event takes a little of the financial burden off so I don’t have to choose between gas, groceries, or their school supplies. It gave my kids more than supplies—it gave them confidence and smiles on their faces.”
– Local parent
The Impact Is Real—And It Starts with You
Help students start the school year with confidence by donating supplies, funds, or your time.
Your financial support helps us expand access and serve more students each year. Donations cover the cost of supplies for the Back 2 School Fair and support the ongoing coordination of this vital community effort.
Want to Donate Supplies Instead?
We welcome hygiene and school supply donations year-round! Items received after the B2SF are shared with local nonprofits through our Community Vault, ensuring they still reach families who need them most.
You can view our full donation list on our web page. Click HERE.
Donations can be dropped off at Oshkosh Area United Way, 16 Washington Avenue. Please call ahead at (920) 235-8560 to ensure a staff member is available to assist you.
You can view more photos from this year’s Back 2 School Fair at our Flickr album. The collection captures the energy of the event and the many community partners who made it possible.
