Grants for School Supplies

School supplies can become a significant expense for families, especially when children need backpacks, notebooks, calculators, uniforms, technology, or other items for the school year.

Although there are not generally federal government grants that simply give families cash for school supplies, help may be available through schools, nonprofit organizations, community programs, scholarships, local assistance programs, and other sources. Federal student aid is primarily designed for eligible college and career-school students, rather than ordinary K-12 school-supply purchases.

Who May Qualify for School Supply Assistance

Eligibility depends on the program. Assistance may be available to:

• Low-income families
• Families receiving public benefits
• Students experiencing financial hardship
• Children in foster care
• Families experiencing homelessness
• Students with disabilities
• Children attending schools with community assistance programs
• College or career-school students with financial need

Some programs are specifically designed for children, while others may help students of different ages.

Types of School Supply Assistance

School Supply Giveaways

Schools, charities, churches, community organizations, and local businesses sometimes organize back-to-school events where eligible children can receive backpacks, notebooks, clothing, or other supplies. Availability is usually local and may be limited to certain dates or school districts.

School-Based Assistance

Some schools and school districts maintain resources for students whose families cannot afford required supplies. Ask the school counselor, family resource office, social worker, or administration whether there are supply closets, donated items, fee assistance, or local programs available.

Nonprofit and Community Programs

Nonprofit organizations may provide school supplies through donations, sponsorships, back-to-school drives, scholarships, or direct assistance. United Way 211 can also connect people with local community resources and assistance programs.

Assistance for College and Career Students

College and career-school students may have additional financial-aid options. The FAFSA can determine eligibility for federal, state, and school financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. Depending on the school, some financial aid or institutional assistance may help with eligible education-related expenses.

Local Family Assistance

Families experiencing financial hardship may also qualify for broader assistance that frees up household income for school expenses. For example, TANF is a federally funded, state-run program that can help qualifying families with expenses such as food, housing, home energy, and childcare. USA.gov's benefit finder also lets families search for government programs by categories including children and families, education, food, health, housing, and cash assistance.

What School Supplies May Be Covered?

Depending on the program, assistance may include:

• Backpacks
• Notebooks
• Pencils and pens
• Paper
• Folders and binders
• Calculators
• Art supplies
• School uniforms
• Shoes
• Classroom materials
• Books
• Computers or tablets
• Other required school materials

Not every program covers every item, so check the program's requirements before applying.

How School Supply Assistance Typically Works

1. Make a list of what is needed. Check the school's required-supply list.
2. Ask the school first. School staff may know about free supplies or local assistance.
3. Search community programs. Look for nonprofit, charity, and back-to-school programs.
4. Check government benefits. Use official benefit resources to identify programs that may help your household.
5. Check student financial aid if applicable. College and career-school students should complete the FAFSA when appropriate.
6. Apply early. Back-to-school programs may have limited supplies or application periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful Tips

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