Need help with school supplies in San Bernardino County? We’ve got the latest information on where to find free resources.
Know Your Rights
California law mandates schools to provide all necessary supplies, materials, and equipment for students to participate fully in educational activities, at no cost to families. This includes both curricular and extracurricular activities, regardless of whether they offer credit.
Reach out to your child’s school right away if you’re struggling to afford supplies. In April 2024, a Grand Jury found that California schools should not even distribute lists of supplies because they are all supposed to be provided at no additional cost.
If you’re being asked to purchase supplies for your child’s education, reach out to your school or district to clarify this policy.
Get Free School Supplies near San Bernadino
That being said, many local organizations and charities still provide additional support to schools and low income families who need extra help.
Here are a few key resources:
- Inland Empire United Way: This organization hosts a free back-to-school event where families can receive both school supplies and backpacks.
- Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (CAPSBC): CAPSBC offers free school supplies and backpacks, along with valuable resources on free school lunches and other programs for low-income families. They also conduct seasonal school supply drives.
- Fontana Church: This church provides free school supplies in San Bernardino County. They typically host an event, but you may also be able to get supplies by simply dropping in if you can’t attend the event.
- Children’s Fund: This organization assists low-income families and children with various needs, including school supplies, clothes, and backpacks. The Children’s Fund offers assistance throughout the year, so check with them for current availability.
- Harbor Community Health Centers: In 2024, they held a free backpack and school supply giveaway on August 10th. While this event has passed, it’s worth checking with them in 2025 to see if they’ll repeat it.
Additional Resources
Remember, there are additional places you can turn for help including:
- Talk to your school: Your child’s school has to give them the supplies they need. If you’re having trouble getting those supplies, talk to the school principal or a teacher.
- Check with local churches and groups: Lots of churches and other groups in your neighborhood might have school supplies to give away. It’s worth asking around!
- Call 211: If you’re not sure where to go for help, call 211. They can tell you about all sorts of programs that can help your family.
Relief Recap
With the law mandating that public schools provide all the supplies that children need, it’s easier than ever to get free school supplies in San Bernadino. You just need to be persistent, follow up with your child’s school and remind them of their obligations under the law. You can also seek additional support from the community resources in this list.