School supply donations are low this year

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – As students prepare to go back to the classroom, many parents are concerned with how they’ll afford school supplies.

Each year, the Salvation Army collects school supplies in its “Tools for School” campaign. The agency helps  nearly 1400 families across Allen County, but this year is only able to assist 1200 families due to the lack of donations.

“You just have what's going on with the economy, everybody's struggling still. You've got more people that have a need,” said Timothy Smith, Social Service Director for the Salvation Army.

According to the Salvation Army’s website , there are drop-off sites throughout the city where people can donate supplies. Smith said the program starts in June and picks up during July.

Krista Stockman, Fort Wayne Community Schools’ spokesperson, said with more than 31,000 students in the district, 70% of families need help buying basic supplies to get them through the school year. She said the district tries to keep a plentiful supply of items because throughout the year, students run out.

Smith said, on average, it could cost a family $50 to $80 per child for school supplies, and that’s not the only expense families are faced with when school starts back.

"There are a lot of book fees, registration fees, and all sorts of things like that. And having these book bags is one less thing to worry about,” he said.

Stockman and Smith said it’s never too late to donate supplies. People can always donate throughout the school year.

Stockman said if your child needs help with supplies, elementary students need to talk with the case manager and middle and high school students should speak with their guidance counselor.

According to the website, the Salvation Army will be taking application from families that need assistance starting next week. To find out how to apply, click here .