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Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for New Jersey single moms who need real, fast help getting backpacks and school supplies. You’ll find exact steps, timelines, phone numbers, and local contacts you can use today. Keep this page open while you call or apply.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Get matched to a backpack event near you: Dial 2-1-1, or text your ZIP code to 898-211 to ask for “school supply/backpack events” this week; save the listing and arrive early. Start with the statewide resource directory at NJ 2-1-1 and ask for a live agent via chat if phone wait times are long. (nj211.org)
  • Call your child’s school for immediate school-based help: Ask for the “McKinney‑Vento liaison” and the principal’s office; say you need “back‑to‑school supplies and transportation help if needed.” Use the liaison finder on NJ Department of Education – Homeless Education and the liaison directory link on District Liaisons to reach the right person. (nj.gov)
  • Ask two statewide charities running 2025 drives: Check Jersey Cares School Supply Drive for county drop‑offs and late-season surplus, and contact United Way of Northern NJ – Tools for School for partner agencies that distribute in August–September. If your city has none, ask for referrals to nearby counties. (jerseycares.org)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 On Hand

What’s New for 2025 in New Jersey

  • No state sales tax holiday on school supplies this year: New Jersey repealed the annual August/September back‑to‑school sales tax holiday in 2024, so expect the usual 6.625% sales tax on eligible items in 2025. Confirm items and rules on NJ Division of Taxation – Sales Tax Holiday and see repeal notice. (nj.gov)
  • Summer EBT is active statewide: For Summer 2025, New Jersey issued a one‑time $120 per eligible child grocery benefit. Read details and timelines at NJ Summer EBT and NJ Department of Agriculture press release; eligibility is tied to school meal/SNAP/TANF/Medicaid data. (nj.gov)
  • Winter Termination Program dates: Shutoff protections for eligible households run November 15–March 15 each year; call your utility and then NJBPU if you need help getting protected. (nj.gov)

Fast Options to Get a Free Backpack and Supplies This Month

Start with the quickest paths first. Most events are first‑come, first‑served; arrive early and bring children when required.

Statewide and Large Regional Drives

  • Jersey Cares School Supply Drive: Check if there’s late‑season distribution or public collection site near you on Jersey Cares; if your agency can’t register, ask staff where leftover kits are going. Many towns (like Westfield PD) partner with Jersey Cares and accept drop‑offs or distribute to families—follow your town website. (jerseycares.org)
  • United Way “Tools for School” (Northern NJ): This drive supplies schools and nonprofits in Morris, Somerset, Suburban Essex, Sussex, and Warren; ask which local partners hand out backpacks. Start at United Way NNJ – Tools for School and check recent program updates. (unitedwaynnj.org)
  • Salvation Army NJ Corps locations: Many corps run August back‑to‑school giveaways or partner with Walmart’s “Stuff the Bus.” Call the nearest corps through Salvation Army New Jersey – Receive Assistance and ask about school supplies for K‑12; national “Stuff the Bus” details are posted at Salvation Army USA – Walmart Stuff the Bus. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey: Local clubs and club partners often host August backpack days. Find your local organization at Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey and ask the site director about any backpack distribution or referral lists. (bgcnj.org)
  • Community FoodBank of New Jersey partners: While CFBNJ focuses on food, partner pantries and community events often bundle kid kits with groceries in late summer. Use the pantry locator on CFBNJ Find Food and ask about school‑supply pop‑ups; SNAP Navigator help is available at 1‑908‑838‑4831. (ffn.cfbnj.org)
  • Operation Homefront (military families): DEERS‑enrolled dependents can register for Back‑to‑School Brigade events via Operation Homefront – Family Events; check for New Jersey or nearby base events, and also see Coast Guard–specific programs in Cape May through Coast Guard Community – Backpack Brigade. (operationhomefront.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your town hall, police community affairs, or library whether they’re partnering with Jersey Cares or a local United Way site; many small events never hit search engines. Also search your county’s Facebook community groups for “backpack giveaway + your town.” (jerseycares.org)

Quick Reference Table — Where Backpacks Tend to Be Available (Mid‑July through Early September)

Program/Host Typical Timing Who Gets Help How to Find It
Jersey Cares School Supply Drive Early June–Aug 20 (sorting late Aug) Schools/501(c)(3)s; some public pick‑ups Check project page; call 973‑533‑1993 for distribution partners. (jerseycares.org)
United Way NNJ – Tools for School July–Aug Partner schools/nonprofits in N. NJ Ask which local agencies distribute to families. (unitedwaynnj.org)
Salvation Army NJ Corps Aug (varies by corps) Low‑income families; pre‑reg often required Call your local corps; ask for “back‑to‑school/backpack giveaway.” (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
Operation Homefront BTS Brigade Late July–Aug DEERS‑enrolled K‑12 dependents Create a MyOperationHomefront account; search NJ/nearby events. (operationhomefront.org)
NJ 2‑1‑1 (events feed) July–Sept Public listings by county Call 2‑1‑1 or text ZIP to 898‑211; ask for “school supply drives.” (nj211.org)

School‑Based Help You Can Request Today

  • Ask your school for supply help and fee waivers: Call the main office and say, “I need school supplies and support for my student.” Mention any homelessness or doubled‑up living to the McKinney‑Vento liaison. Use NJ DOE Homeless Education and the District Liaisons page to identify contacts. (nj.gov)
  • If your school requires uniforms: Some districts (e.g., Trenton) publish uniform colors, and Camden is enforcing uniform rules this fall. Check your district’s website (e.g., Trenton Public Schools – Uniforms) and ask the school if they offer loaner items or vouchers noted in news about Camden’s tightened enforcement. (trentonk12.org)
  • Head Start/Early Head Start families: Many Head Start sites give enrolled children new backpacks and basic supplies. Use the Head Start Center Locator or call 1‑866‑763‑6481 to apply; ask your center about supply distribution dates. (headstart.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school social worker about PTA “uniform closets,” teacher‑donated kits, or Title I‑funded student supports. If you’re between housing or in shelter, tell the liaison immediately—transportation, supplies, and school stability are mandatory supports under McKinney‑Vento. Start with NJ DOE Homeless Education. (nj.gov)

Supplies Through Local Nonprofits, Faith Groups, and Cities

Below are examples you can use as search templates; always call ahead.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Search “[your town] + backpack giveaway,” and check NJ 2‑1‑1 for same‑week events. Ask every site you visit who else is handing out supplies that day. (nj211.org)

Program Basics That Free Up Money for School Needs

NJ SNAP (food benefits): stretch your budget, keep cash for supplies

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you miss your phone interview or need ADA accommodations, call your county office to reschedule; ask for an in‑home or alternate interview if travel is a hardship. Use the county directory to reach a supervisor if needed. (nj.gov)

WorkFirst NJ/Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): short‑term cash

  • Who it helps: Very low‑income families with a child may get monthly cash plus work supports. Learn the steps at WorkFirst NJ (TANF) and apply through NJHelps. (nj.gov)
  • Timing: Most cases get a decision within 30 days; county reviews “immediate need” for food, clothing, or shelter protections. See WFNJ – Apply. (nj.gov)
  • Work supports that can help with school costs: WFNJ can fund required clothing, tools, books, and sometimes transit while you complete work activities—ask your case manager about the work expense voucher (up to $500 lifetime noted on WFNJ recipient page). See WFNJ – Stay on Track. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your emergency request is denied, ask for a supervisor review the same day and bring proof of the need (shutoff notice, eviction, school letter). Use the county office list for direct lines. (nj.gov)

Free/Reduced‑Price School Meals & Summer EBT: food frees funds for supplies

  • School breakfast/lunch: Apply through your school; the program is managed by the NJ Department of Agriculture – School Nutrition. Keep your approval letter—it can qualify you for other help. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
  • Summer EBT (2025): New Jersey issued a one‑time $120 per eligible child in summer grocery benefits; benefits expire after 122 days from load date. Learn eligibility and look‑up tool at NJ Summer EBT; state press confirms scale. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your card hasn’t arrived or you think your child was missed, use the Summer EBT eligibility page and contact form to correct school data, or call your district’s food service office listed on your school website. (nj.gov)

NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP) & WIC: health coverage and young‑child nutrition

  • NJ FamilyCare: Kids and many parents may qualify for free/low‑cost care; phone help at 1‑800‑701‑0710 or apply online via NJ FamilyCare. Coverage keeps cash free for supplies and shoes. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
  • WIC (pregnant, postpartum, infants, and kids under 5): WIC provides e‑WIC benefits for formula and healthy foods; it doesn’t buy school supplies but supports your grocery budget. Find your local clinic on NJ WIC – How to Apply. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If phone lines are busy, use the NJ FamilyCare “Need help enrolling?” page to find local assisters by county. For WIC, ask for an earlier cancellation slot. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)

Reality Check — 2025 Money‑Saving but Important Updates

  • No New Jersey sales‑tax holiday: Plan your shopping assuming full state sales tax (6.625%) on school supplies and computers; the 2025 holiday is repealed. See NJ Division of Taxation – Holiday page. (nj.gov)
  • Some drives fill up early: Large drives (e.g., Jersey Cares) close agency registration by early August; walk‑up giveaways may still appear through late August/early September—watch NJ 2‑1‑1 and city pages. (jerseycares.org)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in New Jersey Today

  • Call your utility first and ask for a payment plan: Request a “deferred payment arrangement” and budget plan immediately; take notes with agent name, date, and terms.
  • Get protection under the Winter Termination Program (WTP): If you receive USF, LIHEAP/HEAP, WFNJ/TANF, SSI, PAAD, GA, or are facing hardship, you can request WTP shutoff protection Nov 15–Mar 15; call your utility and then the NJ Board of Public Utilities hotline at 1‑800‑624‑0241. (nj.gov)
  • Apply for help right now: Use the DCAid portal to apply for USF and LIHEAP; you can also call the state energy assistance hotline at 1‑800‑510‑3102 for agency help. Read program dates and facts on DCA – LIHEAP and NJBPU WTP update. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call BPU 1‑800‑624‑0241 to file a complaint and request assistance; ask about USF Fresh Start and PAGE program referrals. See the BPU programs page for options. (nj.gov)

Timelines and Wait Times You Can Expect

Process Typical Wait What Speeds It Up
SNAP standard decision Up to 30 days Answer unknown calls; upload all documents; ask for expedited service if you qualify. See NJ SNAP – Apply. (nj.gov)
SNAP expedited By day 7 Explain you have very low income/resources or high housing costs vs. income; NJ code sets 7‑day standard. See code summary. (casetext.com)
WFNJ/TANF About 30 days Attend interview; ask for “immediate need” if you lack essentials; upload docs via NJHelps. See WFNJ Apply. (nj.gov)
School liaison help Same day–1 week Call the main office and the McKinney‑Vento liaison; bring proof of enrollment if you moved. (nj.gov)
Summer EBT Pre‑loaded by mid‑June (2025) Keep your mailing address current with school/SNAP; benefits expire after 122 days. See NJ Summer EBT. (nj.gov)

Required Documents — Bring These to Save Trips

  • Proof of identity and kids’ ages: State ID or driver’s license; child’s birth certificate or school enrollment letter; if homeless, ask school to verify.
  • Proof of address or hardship: Lease, utility bill, or shelter letter; for doubled‑up, ask school or agency to note your situation under McKinney‑Vento.
  • Income and expenses: Recent pay stubs, child support, unemployment notice; rent/lease, utilities, childcare receipts; medical costs if elderly/disabled adult in the home.

Where to verify: See checklists within NJ SNAP Apply and WFNJ’s document list on WFNJ – Apply. (nj.gov)

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

  • Photo ID for you: Driver’s license, state ID, or other government ID.
  • Proof of each child’s age/enrollment: Birth certificate, school letter, or portal screenshot.
  • Proof of address or McKinney‑Vento status: Lease/utility bill or school/shelter letter.
  • Proof of income: Last 30 days of pay stubs, benefits letters, or self‑employment log.
  • Proof of expenses: Rent, utilities, childcare, child support paid, medical costs (if applicable).
  • Your phone charged/voicemail set up: You must answer unknown numbers for interviews.
  • A folder for papers: Keep copies of everything you submit and note dates/times of calls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Quick‑Look Eligibility & Uses (Cheat Sheet)

Need Best First Step Notes
Backpack/supplies this week NJ 2‑1‑1 + Jersey Cares Many pop‑ups run mid‑Aug; confirm child must be present. (nj211.org)
School‑based supplies McKinney‑Vento liaison If homeless/doubled‑up, ask for transport and supplies. (nj.gov)
Grocery money to free cash for supplies NJ SNAP via NJHelps Ask about 7‑day expedited if very low income/resources. (nj.gov)
Cash help WFNJ/TANF Ask for “immediate need” screening at application. (nj.gov)
Utility shutoff Utility + NJBPU Request WTP protection (Nov 15–Mar 15) and USF help. (nj.gov)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Routes

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for confidential help from your school liaison and request safe‑space drop‑off if needed; most McKinney‑Vento teams will accommodate. Use NJ 2‑1‑1 to find affirming youth or family centers, and check your local United Way partner list for inclusive distribution sites. (nj211.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request accommodations (home or phone interviews, large‑print documents, ASL/TTY) when applying for NJ SNAP and WFNJ. For care coordination, contact NJ Dept. of Human Services – Division of Disability Services and ask your county’s Special Child Health Services unit for an Individual Service Plan. (nj.gov)
  • Veteran or active‑duty single moms: Use military‑specific drives like Operation Homefront Back‑to‑School Brigade and the Coast Guard Community Backpack Brigade (Cape May). Ask the base school liaison officer if you’re near a military installation. (operationhomefront.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: NJ 2‑1‑1 offers multilingual assistance; SNAP and USF eligibility can include mixed‑status households (non‑applicant members). Ask your school for translated McKinney‑Vento notices. Use NJ SNAP for fraud‑alert tips and authorized agencies. (nj211.org)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: If you have cultural ties, contact the Nanticoke Lenni‑Lenape Tribal Nation in Bridgeton (856‑455‑6910) for community connections; New Jersey has state‑recognized tribal communities acknowledged in a state legal settlement. (nanticoke-lenape.info)
  • Rural single moms: Transportation is the barrier. Ask your county Board of Social Services to mail forms or schedule a phone interview, and call NJ 2‑1‑1 to identify mobile pantry or church distributions that include school kits. (nj.gov)
  • Single fathers: The same programs apply. Men can apply for WFNJ/TANF and SNAP; ask your child’s school for McKinney‑Vento support if housing is unstable. (nj.gov)
  • Language access: When you call 2‑1‑1 or NJ FamilyCare (1‑800‑701‑0710), ask for an interpreter; TTY users can dial 7‑1‑1. School liaisons can provide translated notices and interpreters for meetings. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)

Accessibility notes: Ask for large‑print applications, phone interviews if you’re homebound, and TTY/relay lines. You can submit documents by upload through NJHelps to reduce travel time. (njhelps.gov)

Resources by Region (NJ)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

  • Uniform requirements: Trenton posts color rules, and Camden high schools are tightening uniform enforcement for 2025; schools may provide loaners or vouchers if families can’t buy full outfits. See Trenton Public Schools – Uniforms and Camden news coverage. (trentonk12.org)
  • Where to apply for benefits: All SNAP/TANF applications go through county Boards of Social Services; hours and interview practices vary. Use the county directory to confirm hours before visiting. (nj.gov)
  • Backpack events change every year: Counties rotate host sites—Union County, for example, coordinated countywide drives in 2024 and similar efforts continue at the municipal level. Check your county site and NJ 2‑1‑1. (ucnj.org)

Tables — Program Snapshots and Contacts

Table A — State and Federal Contacts You’ll Use Most

Topic Best Contact Notes
Statewide resource search NJ 2‑1‑1 Call 2‑1‑1; text ZIP to 898‑211; TTY 7‑1‑1. (nj211.org)
SNAP/TANF apply NJHelps Upload docs; track case status. (njhelps.gov)
County offices County Social Services directory Find your local office’s phone/address. (nj.gov)
School supply liaison NJ DOE – Homeless Education Ask your district liaison for supplies/transport. (nj.gov)
Summer EBT NJ Summer EBT $120/child in 2025; 122‑day spend window. (nj.gov)
Utility shutoff help NJBPU Customer Assistance Hotline 1‑800‑624‑0241; WTP protections. (nj.gov)

Table B — “Can I Use This for School Needs?”

Program Pays for Food Helps With Supplies How It Still Helps
SNAP Yes No Frees cash for backpacks; see USDA rules. (fns.usda.gov)
WFNJ/TANF N/A Possibly for work/school‑related needs via vouchers Ask case manager about approved expenses. See WFNJ. (nj.gov)
McKinney‑Vento N/A Yes (school can supply) District liaison can provide supplies/transport. NJ DOE. (nj.gov)
Summer EBT Yes No $120/child for groceries in Summer 2025. State site. (nj.gov)

Table C — Typical Back‑to‑School Event Windows

Region Common Window Where to Watch
North (Bergen/Essex/Hudson/Passaic) Mid‑Aug Jersey Cares, United Way NNJ, city calendars. (jerseycares.org)
Central (Mercer/Middlesex/Monmouth/Somerset/Union) Mid‑Aug to early Sept UWGMC, HomeFront, town sites. (uwgmc.org)
South (Camden/Atlantic/Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem/Cape May) Mid‑Aug Food Bank of South Jersey, county pages; Coast Guard Community (Cape May). (foodbanksj.org)

Table D — Utility Help Snapshot (for Back‑to‑School Budget Relief)

Program What It Does How to Apply
LIHEAP Helps with heating/cooling bills; seasonal Apply via DCA LIHEAP page or 1‑800‑510‑3102. (nj.gov)
USF + Fresh Start Lowers monthly bills; arrears forgiveness Use DCAid; ask utility about Fresh Start after USF approval. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
WTP Prevents shutoff Nov 15–Mar 15 Call your utility and NJBPU at 1‑800‑624‑0241. (nj.gov)

Table E — Who Else Might Help

Type Where to Look
Faith‑based drives Parish/temple/mosque bulletins; county Catholic Charities sites (e.g., Diocese of Trenton – Backpack drives). (catholiccharitiestrenton.org)
Civic/NAACP/Community Orgs Bergen County NAACP events; town events calendars. (bergennaacp.org)
Libraries and YMCAs Ask your branch or YMCA for “back‑to‑school” flyers; some distribute kits with partners (check county listings at NJ SNAP Navigators – YMCA partners). (nj.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied (SNAP/TANF/USF)

  • Read the notice: Note the reason and the deadline to appeal.
  • Fix fast: If it’s “missing documents,” upload the exact item through NJHelps and call your worker with the receipt number. If it’s an interview no‑show, call your county office and ask to reschedule within 10 days. (njhelps.gov)
  • Appeal: File a fair hearing request (instructions on your notice). Meanwhile, ask about emergency pantry and any school‑based supplies via your McKinney‑Vento liaison. (nj.gov)

Real‑World Examples (2025)

FAQs (New Jersey, 2025)

  1. Can I still get tax‑free school supplies in New Jersey this year: No—New Jersey repealed its annual sales tax holiday; plan on the standard 6.625% tax. See the state’s holiday page and repeal notice on NJ Division of Taxation. (nj.gov)
  2. How do I find this week’s backpack giveaway near me: Call 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP to 898‑211, and ask for “school supply/backpack events.” Also check Jersey Cares and your city’s site. (nj211.org)
  3. What if my school requires uniforms and I can’t afford them: Ask your principal or the McKinney‑Vento liaison about loaners or vouchers. Districts like Trenton post uniform colors; Camden is enforcing policies this fall. (trentonk12.org)
  4. How fast can I get SNAP: Standard is up to 30 days; if you qualify for expedited SNAP, benefits can arrive within 7 calendar days. See NJ SNAP – Apply and expedited rules in code. (nj.gov)
  5. Can SNAP buy backpacks or notebooks: No. SNAP buys food only. See USDA SNAP – Eligible Foods. (fns.usda.gov)
  6. What is Summer EBT and how much is it in 2025: It’s a one‑time $120 per eligible child grocery benefit; cards expire 122 days after load. Check your child’s status at NJ Summer EBT and the state’s June 2025 press release. (nj.gov)
  7. Who do I call if my power is about to be shut off: Call your utility for a budget plan, then call NJBPU at 1‑800‑624‑0241 about Winter Termination protections and referrals. Apply for USF/LIHEAP via DCAid. (nj.gov)
  8. Who helps me apply for SNAP in person: Use the Navigator list on NJ SNAP – Get Help Applying (CFBNJ, Fulfill, Food Bank of South Jersey, YMCAs). (nj.gov)
  9. Do I need to bring my child to backpack giveaways: Many events require the child to be present; always read the event page (e.g., city or community postings) or call the host to confirm. Start with NJ 2‑1‑1 listings. (nj211.org)
  10. I’m a single dad—can I use these programs: Yes. WFNJ/TANF, SNAP, and McKinney‑Vento supports apply to eligible households regardless of gender. (nj.gov)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta es una traducción generada con herramientas de IA; confirme siempre con las agencias oficiales.

  • Mochilas y útiles escolares: Llame al 2‑1‑1 o envíe su código postal al 898‑211 para pedir “eventos de mochilas/útiles” de esta semana, y consulte Jersey Cares y su municipio. (nj211.org)
  • Ayuda escolar (McKinney‑Vento): Pida hablar con el “enlace McKinney‑Vento” en la escuela; este programa puede proveer útiles, transporte y estabilidad escolar. Vea NJ DOE – Educación de estudiantes sin hogar. (nj.gov)
  • Comida para liberar dinero para útiles: Solicite NJ SNAP (posible decisión en 7 días si califica), y confirme Summer EBT 2025 de $120 por niño. Para energía, use DCAid y llame a NJBPU al 1‑800‑624‑0241. (nj.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

Sources we used and recommend:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

We use only official or highly trusted sources and update regularly, but we are not a government agency and cannot guarantee individual outcomes. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is information, not legal advice. Program eligibility and funding change. Always confirm with the official agency, your county office, or school liaison before applying or traveling. For emergencies, call 9‑1‑1; for mental health crises, call or text 9‑8‑8.

What to Do Next (1‑Page Action Plan)

  • Today: Call 2‑1‑1 and your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison. Check Jersey Cares or your city’s site for a backpack event within 7 days. (nj211.org)
  • This week: Apply on NJHelps for SNAP/WFNJ (ask for expedited SNAP if you qualify). Set voicemail and answer unknown calls. (njhelps.gov)
  • Before bills hit: If you have a shutoff notice, set a payment plan with your utility and call NJBPU at 1‑800‑624‑0241; apply for USF/LIHEAP via DCAid. (nj.gov)

Stay steady and keep notes on every call. You’ve got this.

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