As the start of a new school year approaches, many of you are probably taking advantage of the great deals on school supplies.  As you take advantage of these deals, consider buying a little extra for yourself and some to give to someone else.  Most teachers will ask for more school supplies mid-year, but there aren’t really any good deals at that point in the year, and who wants to pay full price for school supplies when you can get them dirt cheap right now??

We are on a tight budget right now, but I always try to look for ways that I can help others and still stay within the budget.  If you are able to, I would also encourage you to buy a little extra to help out others in need.  Also, if you have backpacks that are still in good condition, consider donating them as well!  Check with local church organizations in your area – many of them will organize school supply drives.  Also, check with your local school counselors as they often collect items for children in need.

Here are some of the items you can purchase and donate without busting your budget:
-Crayola crayons (24 ct) – $.25/each (Walmart/Target)
-Crayola markers – $1/each (Walmart)
-Erasers – $.20 (Target)
-Glue – $.25/each (Walmart and Target)
-Kid scissors – $.79-$.99 (Walgreens/Walmart/Target)
-Notebooks (single subject) – $.15/each (Walmart)
-Pens -$.15-$.50 (Papermate are $.15 @ Office Max this week; Bic are $.50-$.99 at Walmart/Target)
-Pocket folders – $.10/each (Walmart/Target)
-Poly binders – $.50/each (Target)
-Rose Art colored pencils – $.50/each (Target) – plus you get free crayons this week when you buy them!
-Rulers – $.19 (Walgreens)

Here are a few organizations that I came across where you can donate supplies (some are local to my area, but may be options in your area, too).  If you know of other organizations, please feel free to comment and share!

KCM Red Apple Program ~ Organize a drive in your community or church group or donate supplies and backpacks to the program

Operational Homefront ~ Donate backpacks and supplies to help support military families (find a local chapter near you)

Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child ~ Fill a shoebox with school supplies, hygiene items, and small toys to help children in other countries who are in need.  (This would be a great activity to do as a family!)

YMCA Operation Backpack ~ Donate backpacks and supplies to your local YMCA.  They will donate them to families in need.  (This links to the YMCA in my area, but there may be locations in your area participating in this program as well)

Do you have a Thrifty Thursday idea to share?  Feel free to link up below!  For more Thrifty Thursday ideas, check out Coupon Teacher, Madame Deals, and Life as a Mom.

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