Hosting a drive, contributing to one, or donating financially ensures STEM Library Lab is equipped to meet the growing needs of teachers who rely on us for their supplies.
Ready to get started?
The Free-Store is a community resource hub, a cost-saving engine, and a lifeline for educators who pour their hearts into their work every day. For teachers, it means real support that makes their jobs more sustainable. For administrators, it means lower out-of-pocket burdens for staff and stronger morale. And for donors, it’s a direct and deeply impactful way to invest in the people shaping our students’ future
- TFS has saved teachers $73,700 thus far this academic year (Aug.-Nov.2025)
- 95% of teachers were able to find items they needed.
- Over 50% of teachers who visited our Teacher's Lounge spent their time designing lessons.
- 99% of teachers would recommend the Free-Store to a fellow teacher
About Teacher Free-Store Supply Drive Initiative
Thank you for joining our annual Teacher Free-Store campaign! Each summer, STEM Library Lab partners with the community to host hundreds of simultaneous school supply drives to equip students in need.
Why: Nearly 1 in 3 children in New Orleans — around 32% — live below the poverty line.
Who can participate: We invite everyone to join - individuals, businesses, faith groups, civic groups, neighborhoods, sports teams, scout troops, and more!
When: Host your drive anytime! We recommend running your drive for a 6-week period.
- Let the Good Supplies Roll!: January 2026 – February 2026
- Fly into Finals: Feb 23 - April 3, 2026
- Back-to-School Drive: June 1 - July 17, 2026
- Midterm Restock: September 28 - November 6, 2026
- Season of Giving, Teacher Edition: November 6 – December 2026
Where: Host your drive online and/or in person. Your support will help prepare 162,000+ students and their teachers in our region for the upcoming school year.
