While back to school can be a very exciting time of year, it can also be a very trying time for many people in our community. We know that 1 in 5 children under 18 in Austin/Travis County experience food insecurity on a regular basis and that basic needs requests accounted for 54% of our total call volume at 2-1-1 in 2018. As families navigate back-to-school season, children not only need new clothes and medical check-ups, but families are additionally tasked with gathering a list of required supplies — making the cost of going back to school very unobtainable, very quickly. Thankfully, there are many programs and nonprofits geared towards helping families gather these supplies and offering these medical exams for free, and you can call 2-1-1- today for all the details.
There are dozens of back-to-school events happening in our community, and there are a variety of benefits available to all families. Services that may be available at these FREE events include:
- -Free clothes for kids
- -Free school supplies
- -Free immunizations
- -Immunization records assistance
- -Sports physicals
- -Eye exams
- -Hearing screenings
- -Safety supplies (booster seats, etc.)
- -Food, fun, games and more!
Events are happening now, and will be continue through the middle of August. For a list of events in your area, and what to expect and prepare for at each event call 2-1-1 today.
When calling 2-1-1, be sure to ask about the upcoming 2019 Back to School event at Manos de Cristo that will support 2000 children over five days:
When: July 22-26, 2019, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Where: 4900 Gonzales St. Austin, TX 78702
Details: This event is first come, first serve (show up early to get in line on the day you want to go!) and will serve the first 400 children each day. Participants will receive two sets of clothing, school supplies, backpacks and books.
Eligibility: Guardian must have an ID; child must be present. The age range served is Pre-K – 5th grade. This event is open to ALL counties.
This is one of the most popular events of the season, but it’s far from the only one! If you can’t make it to this incredible event, there are many more opportunities for you and your family to participate in.
Things to remember for back to school:
- -Call 2-1-1 for details on all back-to-school events or if you’d like to make donations towards these events.
- -Some events require registration, but most do not
- –Tax-Free Weekend is happening August 9-11th. You can get school supplies, clothing and school related materials tax free (up to $100 per checkout).
We know back to school is hard, but 2-1-1 is here to help make it easier for you. Call today!