If you’re looking for free school supplies in Alameda County, you’ve come to the right place! We have found ways to get free backpacks and more in Oakland, Berkeley and beyond. Let’s dive right in!
Check with the School First
Did you know that California law says schools have to give your kids all the supplies they need for school, for free? That means no more stressing about buying pencils, notebooks, or even stuff for special projects. It’s all covered, even for after-school activities!
If you’re asked to buy school supplies for your child, there are some steps that you can take.
- Talk to your child’s school right away. If a teacher or the school asks you to buy supplies, let them know about this law. You can even mention that in April 2024, grand jury found that schools shouldn’t even be giving out supply lists anymore!
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re having trouble getting the supplies your child needs, talk to the school principal or a counselor. They’re there to help you.
Remember, you have the right to make sure your child has everything they need to succeed in school, without having to worry about extra costs.
Free School Supplies in Alameda County CA
There are many churches, charities and even businesses in Alameda County that provide free school supplies for low income students. Some of them give the supplies to schools while others distribute the items directly to families.
Since contact information and hours can change rapidly, we encourage you to reach out to each of these organizations for their latest hours and details.
Free Backpack Giveaways in Alameda County
Check Center in Claremont gives out free school supplies at its annual event in Alameda County. Check their website for the latest dates and information, visit their website. You can also apply for scholarships and grants for sports and other things!
Oakland Natives GiveBack (ONGB) have given away over 21,000 backpacks filled with supplies over the years. Follow them on social media to find the next date for their annual Attend & Achieve Back to School Rally.
Teaching Self-Sufficiency Through Education offers free backpacks and free school supplies in Alameda County every year.
Free School Supplies for Military & Veteran Families
Operation Homefront gives backpacks and free school supplies to military families in Alameda County. They also help families in other ways.
Other Ways to Get Free School Supplies in Alameda County
One Child offers new clothing and school supplies at their store in the Bay area. To be included, ask your school for a referral, or email onechildca@yahoo.com.
Salvation Army in Alameda County works with its partners to help students in grades K-12. For more information, call a store near you for assistance or referrals.
Free School Supplies for Teachers
Kids in Need Foundation provides boxes of free school supplies to classroom teachers in low-income schools, but teachers must fill out an application on the website.
Target stores give teachers a 15 percent discount on all school supplies
Free School Clothes in Alameda County CA
From kindergarten to high school, children find it easier to learn when they feel good about themselves, and the organizations below want to help. Some offer gently used or new school clothes, and others sell them at affordable prices.
Because most depend on volunteers and donations to keep their doors open, their hours and inventory may vary. If you can’t find what you need here, get referrals from your school, call local churches, or dial 211 for a referral from the United Way.
New Back-to-School Clothes
The Assistance League‘s flagship program, Operation School Bell, knows students learn when they feel good about themselves. In this project, teachers in grades K – 5 identify students who need assistance. Then volunteers take them to Kohl’s to shop for a bag of new clothes. In addition to clothing, students get books to read and free tutoring during the school year.
One Child provides clothing and free school supplies in Alameda County. To visit their store for free NEW school clothes and supplies, you’ll need to ask your school for a referral or email their organization directly.
The Oakland Public Education Fund takes students on an annual shopping trip to Target, and they also provide backpacks, free school supplies, coats, and tutoring.
Clothing Closets
The Telegraph Ministry Center provides new and gently used clothing for Bay area residents of all ages, and most clothing is free.
Salvation Army Assistance Program not only offers free clothing and other services to those in need, but the charity also runs numerous thrift stores. Click here to find a location near you.
Ecumenical Hunger Program in Palo Alto gives free furniture and clothing to the needy. Families and individuals may visit twice a month, but children’s clothing and blankets are also available by appointment.
St. Andrew Foundation on Mission Street in San Francisco gives free clothes and food to the homeless, as well as those with low incomes. Call (415) 241-2600 or visit their website.
Coltrane Church in San Francisco gives out clothing to anyone in need. Call their office for assistance.
Bay Area Women and Children’s Center has one of the largest free clothing closets in San Francisco, and they give out books and personal items as well.
Davis Street in San Leandro gives clothing, food, and more when supplies are available. They can also assist with dental care and other resources as well. In order to receive assistance, you will need to contact their office to arrange a meeting with a family advocate.
St. Vincent de Paul not only helps families with clothing, but it also provides warm coats. This organization has many resources that can help low income families in need.
Relief Recap
If you need free backpacks or school supplies in Oakland, Berkeley or elsewhere in Alameda County, the resources in this list may be able to help you. You’ll need to contact each organization on this list to enroll in their programs.