Katy ISD students head back to class Wednesday, Aug. 12, and two local nonprofits are collecting supplies and clothing so students have what they need on day one.

Compassion Katy's Operation Back 2 School campaign is accepting donations to fill backpacks with supplies for students across the district. The district itself has been amplifying the effort on its official social media channels since at least July 16, posting on its X account Aug. 4 that donations help Compassion Katy provide students with essential supplies for the school year.

Donations can be made online at compassionkaty.org. No physical drop-off location has been announced for the campaign.

Meanwhile, Clothed by Faith is running a parallel back-to-school clothing drive out of its Katy facility at 802 Dominion Drive, Suite 500. The nonprofit needs new socks, new underwear and new or gently used clothing for students in elementary through high school, according to Katy Magazine.

Executive Director Deysi Crespo said the organization's expanded facility, which grew in May 2025, reflects the scale of demand. "Meeting the growing need in our community requires space, volunteers, and heart," Crespo said. "This expansion represents all three."

Founded in 2013, Clothed by Faith has served more than 167,000 people over 14 years, partnering with schools, shelters, churches and social service agencies. About 85% of its work is done by volunteers.

The Katy Times reported July 30 that Clothed by Faith is accepting new sock and underwear donations Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A drop box at the Dominion Drive location is also available for clothing only.

Families buying their own supplies can save during the Texas Sales Tax Holiday, which runs Friday, Aug. 7 through Sunday, Aug. 9. Most school supplies, backpacks, clothing and shoes under $100 qualify for a sales tax exemption, according to Houston Public Media.

How to help before Aug. 12

  • Compassion Katy Operation Back 2 School: Donate online at compassionkaty.org
  • Clothed by Faith clothing drive: Drop off new socks, underwear or gently used clothing at 802 Dominion Drive, Suite 500, Katy. Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • Texas Sales Tax Holiday: Aug. 7–9. School supplies, backpacks and clothing under $100 are tax-free.