Staples Canada Surpasses $1M Goal, Champions Long-Term Community Investment

TORONTO, ON – November 20, 2025 – Staples Canada has once again demonstrated its dedication to Canadian communities, exceeding its $1 million fundraising goal for its 20th annual School Supply Drive. This milestone year for the program highlights two decades of commitment to providing essential school supplies to students across the country, fostering educational equity and creating a brighter future for Canadian youth.

A Legacy of Giving Back

The 2025 School Supply Drive, which ran from July 28 to September 28, surpassed its goal through the generosity of customers and a strategic partnership with key charitable organizations. Staples Canada directs 100% of customer donations towards providing essential school supplies to students in need. This year’s success builds on an impressive legacy, bringing the total community impact of the program to over $18 million since its inception in 2005.

“It’s truly remarkable to reach this milestone,” said a representative from Staples Canada. “This isn’t just about providing supplies; it’s about investing in the potential of Canadian students and ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.”

The program’s longevity speaks to a deeply ingrained commitment to social responsibility, setting a high standard for corporate giving within the Canadian retail sector. Unlike one-off initiatives, Staples Canada’s School Supply Drive has become a consistent and reliable source of support for students and families facing financial hardship.

Addressing the Growing Need for Educational Equity

The continued success of the drive underscores the persistent and growing need for educational equity in Canada. As economic pressures increase, more families struggle to afford essential school supplies, creating a significant barrier to learning. The cost of supplies can be particularly challenging for low-income families, Indigenous communities, and rural students, exacerbating existing inequalities.

“The impact of not having basic supplies is significant,” explains a representative from United Way Centraide. “Students may feel embarrassed, excluded, or unable to fully participate in class. These challenges can have long-term consequences on their academic performance and overall well-being.”

Staples Canada’s School Supply Drive directly addresses this issue by providing essential materials to students who might otherwise go without. By removing this financial burden, the program helps to level the playing field and ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Beyond Supplies: A Holistic Approach to Community Investment

Staples Canada’s commitment to community impact extends beyond the School Supply Drive, encompassing a broader range of initiatives focused on health equity and environmental sustainability. The company’s “Even the Odds” campaign, in partnership with the MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, is dedicated to addressing systemic inequities in healthcare access and outcomes.

“We believe that health and education are inextricably linked,” explains a company representative. “Investing in both areas is essential for creating thriving and equitable communities.”

The “Even the Odds” campaign raises funds and awareness for research and solutions that address social determinants of health, such as poverty, housing, and access to nutritious food. By tackling these underlying issues, the program aims to create a healthier and more just society for all Canadians.

Furthermore, Staples Canada is committed to environmental sustainability through a range of initiatives, including partnerships with HP, TerraCycle, Tree Canada, and Call2Recycle. These partnerships focus on reducing waste, conserving resources, and promoting responsible environmental practices. Through these initiatives, the company is demonstrating its commitment to creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.

The company’s long-term approach to corporate social responsibility is setting a new standard for businesses across Canada. By investing in education, health, and environmental sustainability, Staples Canada is demonstrating that it is possible to be both profitable and purpose-driven.