As the new school year quickly approaches, parents everywhere are busy preparing their children for the classroom. Yet, for many families, this time of year brings not only excitement but also a heavy financial burden. The rising cost of back-to-school shopping can be overwhelming, especially for families already struggling to cover essential expenses.
The High Cost of Going Back to School
Back-to-school shopping has always been a significant expense, but this year, it’s more challenging than ever. Parents are expected to spend an average of $586 per child on back-to-school items, an 11% increase since 2020. For families living paycheck to paycheck, this cost is simply out of reach.
With inflation driving up the cost of essentials, many parents are making tough decisions about how to allocate their limited resources. A recent survey found that 28% of parents plan to cut back on clothing purchases if their budgets become too tight. This means that some children may start the school year without the proper clothing they need, which can affect their confidence and ability to participate fully in school activities.
How Operation Warm is Easing the Burden
At Operation Warm, we understand the immense pressure that back-to-school shopping can place on families. That’s why we’ve launched our #SchoolReady initiative, aiming to ensure every child starts the school year with the essentials they need to succeed. By providing brand-new, high-quality coats and shoes, we’re not just meeting practical needs—we’re helping kids feel confident and prepared.
Join Us in Getting Kids #SchoolReady
As we gear up for another school year, you can help reach even more children in need:
- Support Operation Warm’s #SchoolReady initiative. Donate to provide clothing essentials, like brand-new winter coats and athletic-style shoes, to students across North America to set them up for success this school year. Help us spread the gift of warmth.
- Volunteer. Have the gift of time to share? Volunteer with a local nonprofit that helps kids and families in need, such as a childhood literacy organization, food bank, or outreach group. Learn more about volunteering at Operation Warm school events through our Community Impact Volunteer program.
- Donate school supplies and books. Many nonprofit organizations (as well as local schools and teachers) eagerly accept donations.
- Get your company or organization involved. Many nonprofits rely on support from corporate or community partners to fund and facilitate their programs—and volunteering or fundraising together is a great way to bring your team closer. Learn more about partnering with Operation Warm.
- Start a back-to-school program with Operation Warm. Sign up to be a community partner and fundraise to gift brand-new coats and shoes to students in your own community.
Together, we can ensure that every child starts the school year feeling confident, prepared, and ready to learn. Your support can make all the difference—because every child deserves to be #SchoolReady.
Stay Connected with Us
Follow us on social media to stay updated on our #SchoolReady initiative and find more ways to get involved!
