by S. G. Harsha

Created on: April 16, 2009   Last Updated: April 25, 2009

If you are a teacher or have children in school, then you know the cost of school supplies can quickly add up. A pencil, a backpack, folders, paper, or perhaps a calculator; the toll of the register bells echoes the school bells and the price can be a concern. If this describes your situation, then be happy to know you can lower some of that expense to the most reasonable cost of free. Here are some places for teachers and parents to save some money and make school more affordable.

Churches

Your local church is a great place to start looking for school supplies. Even if you aren't a member, most churches that offer assistance and school supplies in their community do so regardless of membership. Call or stop into local churches in your area and you will be surprised how helpful they can be.

Charity

There are many charity organizations that offer school supplies to those in need. Kids_in_need is one of the organizations out there, but not the only one. Most you can find online, or get more information about from your church, or child's school.

Online

The Internet is a great place to look for free offers. Try websites like Everyday_Hero and also search for free items in classified ads elsewhere online. Also don't forget the power of web search. Searching for free school supplies will bring up a large amount of various websites that either offer what you are looking for or can direct you where to find it.

The school

Your child's school can provide offers or information on low cost or free school supplies. It is in their best interest to supply information to the parents to make sure students have all the supplies they need.

College

Many community colleges also offer information on how to acquire low cost and free supplies. Some colleges even have student body organizations that specialize in helping their community's education. Contacting these schools and asking if there are any charity programs or information groups will yield some help.

Business Offices

Many offices may have surplus or waste that you will find useful. For instance, three ring binders used in presentations. If you are not comfortable with cold calling local work offices, you can ask friends you know who work in office environments to be on the lookout for these things.

Lion's Club

The Lions Club is an organization that is dedicated to promoting community and international community improvement. They often have charities, groups, programs, auctions or information and options for you to explore for assistance.

Government

Don't overlook the government and its parts. Local fire, emergency, police and administration offices have options for you to explore as well. Call around and ask if they know of any help for children who need school supplies.

Helping your community

For the industrious, start your own group of foragers and scour the options, offices, charities, schools, companies, and organizations to help your community. If you don't know where to begin, ask your local church, school, Lions Club, or local government offices for help or information on where to start.

Most programs are overlooked and under advertised but they are out there. School doesn't have to be a burden during times of need. These are just a few options and there are more, but this will be a good start in your search for free school supplies.

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