How to find free school supplies for low-income families
Getting your kids ready for school can be expensive. Back-to-school costs can add up fast between backpacks, notebooks, uniforms, and other classroom supplies, especially if you have more than one child.
But there are special programs and events that can help qualifying families get school supplies for free or at a very low cost. Here’s where to look if you need help getting ready for the upcoming school year.
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1. Check with your child’s school or school district#1-check-with-your-childs-school-or-school-district
Many schools collect donations or work with local organizations to give away free school supplies at the start of the year.
Some even provide free uniforms or clothing vouchers for students who need them. If your child qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch, they may also be eligible for other assistance programs through the school.
Here’s how to find free school supplies with your district:
- Call your school’s main office and ask if they have a school supply program
- Check the school district’s website for “back-to-school” or “family resources” pages that might have information about free school supplies
- Ask your child’s teacher or guidance counselor—sometimes they have extra supplies in the classroom
2. Ask about help through other benefit programs#2-ask-about-help-through-other-benefit-programs
If your family already gets SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you may also qualify for help with school supplies.
Some state programs give one-time payments or vouchers for school needs. Others may partner with nonprofits to hand out free backpacks and uniforms.
Here’s how to check for assistance through your current benefits programs:
- Contact your SNAP or TANF case manager and ask about any back-to-school assistance
- Check your state’s benefits website for back-to-school resources.
3. Go to local back-to-school events#3-go-to-local-back-to-school-events
Many communities and cities host back-to-school fairs where families can pick up free backpacks, supplies, and sometimes haircuts or health checkups.
If you find an event that offers free school supplies or backpacks, make sure to get there early; some are first-come, first-served with limited supplies.
Here’s how to find local events:
- Check your city or county’s website for community back-to-school events
- Search Facebook or Eventbrite for “free school supplies” in your area
- Call 211 or visit the 211 website for help finding local resources
4. Check with nonprofit and charity programs#4-check-with-nonprofit-and-charity-programs
Not-for-profit organizations like the Salvation Army, Boys & Girls Clubs, and United Way often run school supply drives.
You can also find help from smaller local charities or houses of worship. To find the contact information for organizations near you, call 211 or visit 211.org.
When you reach out, ask if you need to bring:
- Proof of income or public benefits
- Proof of your child’s school enrollment
- A photo ID
Some of the same community organizations that run food pantries also give away school supplies at the start of the school year.
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5. Try free or low-cost clothing closets#5-try-free-or-low-cost-clothing-closets
If you’re looking for school clothes or uniforms, free or low-cost clothing closets can be a great resource.
Clothing closets give away gently used items, like uniforms, shoes, and coats, at no cost. Many are run by churches or community centers.
- Search online for “clothing closet near me”
- Call 211 to find local programs
- Ask your child’s school counselor for a referral
