Back to school shopping is a significant expense for many families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. The National Retail Federation expects back to school spending to reach a staggering $38.8 billion this year. With the cost of clothing, shoes, electronics, and school supplies adding up, parents are feeling the financial strain.
One parent, Michelle Dickson, shared her experience with back to school shopping, stating that she has already completed her kids‘ shopping and managed to find good deals on notebooks, pencils, markers, crayons, rulers, and other essentials. Despite the rising costs, Dickson was able to shop around and save money on her purchases.
On the other hand, Alyssia Sewall is planning to go shopping this week for her three kids. She anticipates spending around $200 to $300 on school supplies, taking advantage of the discounted prices available at this time of year. According to a National Retail Federation survey, families with children in elementary through high school are expected to spend an average of $874.68 on back to school items, which is slightly lower than last year.
To help alleviate the financial burden of back to school shopping, organizations and groups across the region are stepping in to provide free backpack and supply giveaways. These events, like the one held in Kensington, aim to support families who may struggle to afford school supplies. Parents like Darryl Johnson appreciate the assistance, noting that these programs bring unity and togetherness to the community.
In New Jersey, the Pitts Grove Township school district is taking a proactive approach by providing every student with all the necessary school supplies for the upcoming year. This initiative comes after the state of New Jersey eliminated their back-to-school tax exemption, making it even more challenging for families to afford essential items for their children.
As families navigate the back to school shopping season, it is essential to explore all available resources and opportunities to cut down on costs. With careful planning and budgeting, parents can ensure that their children have everything they need to succeed in the new school year without breaking the bank.