Immigration USA

Here’s How to Get Free Backpacks and School Supplies for Your Kids

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As the back-to-school season approaches, getting the necessary supplies for the academic year can financially burden many families. Thankfully, various resources and organizations provide free school supplies to help alleviate this burden. Through community support, these initiatives aim to provide students with essential items like backpacks, notebooks, pens, and more, ensuring they have what they need for a successful academic journey.


Next, we will answer the following questions:


  1. How can I find local organizations offering this assistance near me?
  2. Are there nationwide organizations that distribute free school supplies?
  3. Who qualifies to receive this help?
  4. What documentation might be required to apply for free school supplies?
  5. What types of school supplies are typically provided?
  6. How can I get free school uniforms or clothing for school?

How can I find local organizations offering this assistance near me?

To discover the best places for free school supplies in your local area, start by conducting a Google search using keywords like “free school supplies near me” or “school supply giveaways in [your city].” This search can yield valuable information about organizations and events offering free school supplies. Here are some places you might find:

  • School Districts: Your child’s school or school district is a great place to start. Sometimes educational institutions have grants and resources to help low-income students.
  • Community Events: Keep an eye on local community event listings or social media platforms for announcements of school supply drives or back-to-school fairs. Many community organizations, non-profits, or local businesses often organize such events to support students in need.

Local Churches: Churches and religious organizations often participate in outreach programs that include providing free school supplies to families in the community. Contact nearby churches or check their websites and bulletin boards for information on any school supply assistance programs they may offer.

Are there nationwide organizations that distribute free school supplies?

Yes, the following organizations typically provide school supplies such as backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, calculators, and more:

United Way organizes back-to-school drives, partnering with local agencies to distribute free school supplies to students in need.

  • The timing of giveaway events may vary by location. To find events near you, visit their website and use the “Find Your Local United Way” feature to locate chapters in your area. You can also contact them by dialing 2-1-1 for more information.

The Assistance League runs Operation School Bell, a year-round program using its regional chapters to address student needs.

  • Families or students in need can apply through their school, with counselors or staff helping them submit applications. 

Back2School America hosts year-round national backpack, and school supplies giveaway events to support students across the US.

  • Visit their website by clicking HERE to stay updated on events in your state. 

The Boys and Girls Club of America runs annual back-to-school campaigns from July 10 to September 11, 2023.

  • Click HERE to visit their website to find clubs in your area, and contact them directly to inquire about scheduled events. 

The Salvation Army frequently hosts back-to-school events or distributions in collaboration with local corps or community centers.

  • Many locations hold events throughout August, so the sooner you contact your local Salvation Army to request assistance, the better. Find a list of locations by entering your city or zip code HERE

Please note that event schedules and application processes may vary by location. It’s best to check with each organization directly for more information.

Who qualifies to receive free school supplies?

Eligibility for free school supplies can differ between organizations. Generally, low-income families or students, homeless or foster youth, and students with disabilities qualify. You may need proof of income, identification, or school enrollment if the organization has an application process. 

How can I get free school uniforms or clothing for school?

To get free school uniforms or clothing for school, you can explore various options such as:

  • Goodwill 
  • The Salvation Army 
  • Operation School Bell 
  • United Way 

Freecycle and Freegle offer free items, including clothing, where you can browse for school uniforms or other clothing items.

Mitzi Colin Lopez is a Digital Ads Content Creator and Experimenter at Noticias Para Inmigrantes. Her origin as a Mexican immigrant characterizes and drives her to empower the Latinx, Hispanic and immigrant communities. She is a recent graduate of West Chester University, where she obtained her bachelor’s in Political Science and Spanish. Her passions include social justice, advocacy, hiking, traveling, and weightlifting.