SCHOOL SUPPLIES ARE EXPENSIVE. We’re here to help!

our Mission

we SUPPORT STRUGGLING FIVE TOWNS FAMILIES BY PROVIDING THEM WITH ESSENTIAL SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR THEIR CHILDREN. 

Pencils and Purpose was created in 2022 with the goal of ensuring that students are properly equipped for the coming school year. 

We strive to remove barriers to academic success, by ensuring that every child has the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive. With the help of key partnerships within the community, we have been able to grow from assisting 55 families in 2022, to helping more than 235 families in 2024.

In June 2022

Pencils and Purpose founder Shoshana Solomon stood in the school supplies aisle at Target, gathering the items her children needed for the upcoming school year. As she scanned the shelves and saw the prices, she was reminded of a time when she couldn’t afford everything on her children's school supply lists. Back then, she would buy what she could and make do with leftovers from previous years.

With those memories
fresh in her mind

Shoshana filled her cart with every supply she could find. Once home, with her living room overflowing with notebooks, crayons, and backpacks, she had one goal: to get these supplies into the hands of families who needed them most. She created a simple flyer and shared it in school group chats. The response was immediate, 55 families signed up, and hundreds of children started the school year with brand-new supplies.

The following year

Shoshana returned to Target and did it all again. Requests had grown, and so did her determination. By 2024, 235 families requested supplies for over 850 students. With the support of local businesses and charitable partners, Pencils and Purpose ensured every student received what they needed.

TODAY

Pencils and Purpose continues its mission: to ease the financial burden of back-to-school preparation and to ensure every student starts the year with the tools and confidence they need to thrive.

OUR IMPACT

  • I had the privilege of volunteering with Pencils and Purpose, assisting in packaging school supplies for families in need.

    It was truly fulfilling to know that our work would help ease the financial burden on parents and support students in their educational journey. Pencils and Purpose is doing incredible work, and I’m grateful to have contributed to their mission!

    B.U. - Volunteer

  • This past August I received school supplies from pencils and purpose. It was such a great experience!

    It was easy to schedule an appointment, pickup was a breeze and the school supplies were amazing! The quality of the items was great. With  all the stuff I got from them I basically was done school supply shopping for all my kids! It was super helpful and so appreciated!!!!

    Anonymous

  • Pencils and Purpose is truly making a difference in the lives of children and families who need it most.

    Their generosity goes beyond just school supplies, it gives kids the confidence and tools they need to succeed. The students have everything they need to begin the school year therefore easing the burden on parents and ensuring every child has a fair start. The impact of their work is immeasurable, and we are so grateful for their kindness and dedication to education. Thank you, Pencils and Purpose for giving hope and opportunity to so many.

    G.S. - Volunteer

Contact us.

pencilsandpurpose@gmail.com

Cedarhurst, New york