According to the National Retail Federation, total back-to-school spending for families with children in elementary through high school is expected to reach an all-time high in their survey's history. These costs can pose a huge risk to the financial stability of families. Raphael House needs the support of our community to help our students start the school year prepared and confident!
Low-income families living paycheck-to-paycheck must prioritize essentials like rent, groceries, and health care expenses, and often struggle to purchase school supplies. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated those obstacles and the effects continue to be felt throughout our community. Raphael Houses annual Back-To-School Drive provides children with supplies to succeed in school and allows parents to focus on maintaining their financial stability.
This year, our goal is to provide 200 total students with backpacks and to raise $5,000 through our Back-to-School Fund! We know we can do it with your help!
Donations to our Back to School Fund enable Raphael House staff to purchase backpacks and other school supplies as needed, as well as support Raphael Houses programs and operations that provide shelter and supportive services to families experiencing homelessness. These services include preparing children for success during the school year through after-school and Saturday tutoring (currently, we are offering virtual tutoring) and extracurricular activities.