10 August 2014

Time is ticking for kids to enjoy the end of their summer break as calendars turn into August, and stress levels can rise as back-to-school activities beckon to thousands of families in the Northwest Division. Parents will soon be shopping the store aisles to grab the school supply items requested by teachers, but amid the hustle and bustle of nabbing deals and buying new clothes is an often overlooked reality: many kids are without these basic back-to-school necessities. Obtaining the necessary supplies – which range from clothing to calculators – can be costly: the average family will spend $670 this year on supplies and clothing. The biggest cost for back-to-school shoppers? Apparel and accessories, followed by electronics.

That’s why each year The Salvation Army coordinates back-to-school events and distributions for families in need of a helping hand. From collecting supplies from local donors and partnering businesses, to stuffing backpacks and coordinating events, The Salvation Army relies on the hearts and hands of supporters and volunteers to make these events possible.

     

Join Us!

If you can make a donation of new school supplies or clothing, please do so. Some commonly needed items include backpacks, pencils, erasers, pencil pouches, pens, colored pencils, highlighters, rulers, scissors, gluesticks, glue, folders, notebooks, folders, crayons, and markers. Backpacks and shoes are easy to purchase, and we will find a kid that fits them perfectly. You can drop off the items at your local Salvation Army (link to community center page) and we will add them to the supplies and clothing we are distributing to kids later this month.

Looking for Assistance?

Does your family need help for back to school supplies or clothing? Please contact your local Salvation Army as soon as possible. You can find listings for The Salvation Army throughout Washington state, northern Idaho and western Montana, by clicking HERE. We can only distribute what we’ve received from donors; supplies and clothing will be limited.