With the new school year just days away in Georgia â and one countyâs classes already underway this week â back-to-school season should be a time of excitement and fresh starts for students, not a time of stress over notebooks and backpacks. Yet many families are worrying about how to afford the long list of supplies their children need for the start of the school year. A recent survey found that parents plan to spend around $570 per child on back-to-school purchases this year â a hefty burden for households already stretched thin by rising costs. By some estimates, roughly one in four U.S. students lacks access to essential school supplies when school begins. This âsupply gapâ isnât a minor inconvenience; it hinders a childâs academic performance, harms their self-esteem, and can even contribute to absenteeism. When kids donât have the tools to participate in class, they can fall behind their peers. Ensuring every child is equipped for learning isnât just a nice idea â itâs fundamental to giving all students a fair chance to thrive.
Back-to-school expenses have steadily climbed, and basic supplies are pricier than ever. In one survey, 71% of parents said they expect to spend more in 2025 than last year, with many cutting back on other needs or taking on extra work to cover these costs. For many, back-to-school season has become a financial stress test.
Lacking supplies has an immediate impact on a childâs education. When students show up without notebooks or pencils, they often canât fully participate in lessons â leaving them feeling embarrassed or disengaged. Many dedicated teachers do their best to bridge this gap â over 90% purchase classroom necessities out of pocket â but we shouldnât expect them to quietly subsidize a broader community responsibility.
The good news is that communities across Georgia are stepping up to ease the burden. Each summer, school districts, nonprofits, faith groups, and local businesses organize free back-to-school supply drives to help families in need. These events have become a lifeline for parents who might otherwise have to choose between paying a utility bill or buying school supplies. At these giveaways, children receive free backpacks filled with essential supplies. Some events even offer extras like haircuts or health checkups, recognizing that âschool readinessâ isnât just about pencils and paper â itâs also about kids feeling confident and healthy.
At Amerigroup Georgia, we took part in more than 120 back-to-school events statewide this summer, distributing thousands of free backpacks, notebooks, pens, folders, and other supplies so students wouldnât have to start the year empty-handed. We also provided Medicaid renewal assistance and health information, recognizing that a childâs health and education are closely connected.
Iâve seen firsthand how much these initiatives mean to families. Parents at these events often express gratitude â not only for the financial relief but for the sense of community care. It shows them that people in their community have their back. It sends students the message that their community believes in them and wants them to succeed.
Families can also take a few steps on their own to make back-to-school season more manageable. Before buying new supplies, parents should check last yearâs leftovers at home â they may already have items that can be reused. For what they do need, shop smart: use coupons and back-to-school sales, and consider discount stores for basics. Try to spread out purchases over a few weeks rather than making one big shopping trip.
There are also local resources available for those who need extra support. Many communities host free school supply giveaway events open to any family in need. If youâre struggling, let your childâs teacher know â schools often have extra supplies and can assist discreetly. Finally, get kids back on a consistent bedtime routine and take care of any needed health checkups or vaccinations before school starts.
Helping children be ready to learn is an investment that benefits everyone. When students have what they need from day one, theyâre more likely to attend regularly, stay engaged, and achieve academically. Over time, that means a stronger generation rising through our schools and a brighter future for Georgia.
The sight of a child picking out a new backpack at a community giveaway â or a relieved parent receiving a bag of free supplies â reminds us whatâs possible when we look out for one another. It takes a village, and communities across Georgia are proving that. With continued support from organizations like Amerigroup Georgia and partners statewide, we can make sure that every child walks into school this year confident, prepared, and excited to learn.
Letâs work together to give every Georgia student a strong start and a brighter tomorrow.
#BackToSchool #EducationMatters #CommunitySupport
