Back to school shopping: how much does it cost?
The National Retail Federation projects back-to-school spending will reach $38.8 billion, and FOX 29 has profiled several organizations across the region that are giving out free backpacks and supplies to help offset the costs.
PHILADELPHIA — Back to school is just around the corner, and parents are trying to get their kids the tools they need to succeed.
“There were lots of notebooks, pencils, markers, crayons, rulers, dry erase markers,” parent Michelle Dixon said.
Dixon said she’s done most of her shopping for her kids and is just looking for the best deals.
“Costs have definitely gone up, but we shopped around and found a good price,” Dixon said.
Alicia Sewall plans to go shopping this week.
“I’m going this week. Everything is like 50 cents, so with three kids it’s probably going to be $200 or $300,” Sewall said.
Families with children in elementary, middle, and high school plan to spend an average of $874.68 on clothing, shoes, electronics and school supplies, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation.
That’s about $15 less than last year.
Back-to-school spending is expected to reach $38.8 billion.
To help offset the costs, FOX29 is highlighting several organizations across the region that are doing outreach efforts, like this back-to-school event in Kensington on Sunday, handing out free backpacks and supplies.
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“These programs are for families that are less fortunate and can’t afford school supplies. This is the perfect place to do it. It brings unity, peace and togetherness,” said Darryl Johnson, a parent who attended Sunday’s event.
Across the state line in New Jersey, the Pittsgrove Township School District is providing all of their students with all the school supplies they need this year.
This comes after New Jersey eliminated its back-to-school tax exemption altogether this school year.
It always helps to cut costs and cut down on back to school shopping expenses that can be pretty pricey.
