Children's Restoration Network is collecting new backpacks and school supplies for homeless and underserved kids at its Roswell office on Thursday, July 23, and Friday, July 24, giving residents one of the last chances to help before Fulton County Schools opens its doors on Monday, August 3.

The drive accepts donations from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days at 11285 Elkins Road, Building C, Suite 4. CRN, a Roswell-based nonprofit founded in 1993, distributes the supplies to children living in group homes, emergency shelters and domestic violence shelters across Metro Atlanta. The organization serves more than 6,000 children in more than 134 shelters and group homes spanning 21 counties each year, according to a July 2026 report in the Johns Creek Bulletin.

CRN says it has run its Back 2 School campaign for more than 32 years. Individuals, companies, neighborhood groups, churches and civic organizations can drop off new backpacks and supplies. Details are available at www.ChildRN.org or by calling 770-649-7117.

Oak Street Summer Jam closes downtown block Friday

Oak Street will shut down between Canton and Atlanta streets on Friday, July 24, from 5 to 9 p.m. for the Oak Street Summer Jam, a free block party presented by Blended Family Spirits.

The evening features two live bands, local food vendors, pop-up makers and children's activities in a car-free zone. More than 25 local businesses and organizations are participating, including Arepa Grill Kitchen & Wine, Sunny & Ranney, Children's Development Academy and Visit Roswell, according to Roswell365. Downtown Roswell businesses debuted the block-party series in 2025, and it returns for its second summer.

First Day Fulton brings free supplies and health screenings Saturday

Fulton County Schools hosts its First Day Fulton resource fair on Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centennial High School and Banneker High School. The district is offering free school supplies while they last, health screenings for Form 3300 (the state immunization certificate required for enrollment), a department expo, community vendors and entertainment, according to the district's event page at fultonschools.org/firstdayfulton.

The CRN drive accepts donations through Friday afternoon. First Day Fulton distributes free supplies Saturday until they run out.