School supplies are expensive, but there is help out there
It’s hard to stock up for school supplies before the start of each school year, but organizations like the YMCA and the school districts themselves are helping parents with the costs.
The Butler YMCA is having its regular backpack and school supply giveaway Thursday, Aug. 20, which is right before the start of the school year, but will help people get what they need should they still have some items on their list come that time.
It’s the YMCA’s initiative, but it opens up a chance for people to give donations of money or supplies so children can have what they need before the start of a new year. It’s an important drive, because children shouldn’y have to worry about having the school supplies they need.
Families with children in kindergarten through 12th grade will spend an average of $146.45 on school supplies this year and $863.86 overall on clothing, shoes, supplies and electronics, according to the National Retail Federation. That’s a lot of money, and that doesn’t even factor in families of several children, who usually need a horde of new supplies each school year. It’s a lot to ask parents or guardians of school-aged children.
In response to the need, some school districts have begun supplying items for children, and a lot of them lend students the technology they need for a class for the entire school year, which often boils down to a laptop.
Mars Area Elementary School’s principal, Todd Lape, said the school will make sure a student has what they need for the year, and at Summit Elementary School, the Parent-Teacher Organization stocks and operates a school store where children can buy folders, pencils and other necessities for 25 or 50 cents.
Teachers also buy extra supplies, and community organizations conduct backpack and clothing drives for families in need.
Thank you to those who step up to make students feel prepared for the year ahead with all the supplies, a nice backpack and more to make the school year a success.
— ET
