Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in Pennsylvania (2025 Hub Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

Single moms in Pennsylvania can still get free backpacks and school supplies if you move fast and use the right doors. This guide pulls together state programs, school-based help, and trusted nonprofits, with step‑by‑step instructions, phone numbers, and links you can tap right now. You’ll see quick emergency actions first, then deeper how‑tos for each option. For statewide benefits and case help, apply through COMPASS and keep the DHS HelpLine handy while you contact school‑supply programs in your county. (pa.gov)

Reality Check — costs: Philadelphia parents reported spending about $725 per child on back‑to‑school in 2025, slightly down from 2024, but still above the U.S. average. Use that number to plan, then reduce it with the programs below. Tap school district events and nonprofit drives early because they run out of stock. See the Philadelphia Bus Tour and multiple county “Stuff the Bus” drives in the Resources by Region section. (axios.com)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call or text for a live navigator now: Use PA 211 (dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP code to 898‑211) to find the nearest backpack giveaway and school‑supply pantry today. Ask for “back‑to‑school” or “school supplies” and request a warm handoff. Also check your county page under “Education/Back‑to‑School.” (pa211.org)
• Ask your school’s Homeless Education liaison about immediate supplies: Every Pennsylvania district must give students experiencing homelessness school supplies and quick enrollment support under McKinney‑Vento. Use the state’s liaison directory and regional contacts to get same‑week help. Start with PDE Homeless Education and the statewide ECYEH liaison finder. (pa.gov)
• Hit confirmed county or city backpack events: For Philadelphia, go to the School District’s Ring the Bell PHL Bus Tour for free backpacks and enrollment help. For Pittsburgh and nearby districts, check Salvation Army Back‑to‑School Bashes and The Education Partnership drives. Use these event pages and call to confirm stock before you ride. Ring the Bell PHL, Salvation Army WPA events, The Education Partnership. (philasd.org)

Quick help box — Keep these 5 at your fingertips

• State benefits access: Call DHS HelpLine 1‑800‑692‑7462 for benefit questions and COMPASS upload support on school‑related costs you can cover with cash benefits. (pa.gov)
• School‑supply navigation: Dial PA 211, text 898‑211, or use your regional United Way page to get the next backpack event near you. (pa211.org)
• Homeless Education (McKinney‑Vento): Contact your district liaison via PDE Homeless Education or your regional ECYEH coordinator. (pa.gov)
• WIC (for kids under 5) — supplies often paired with family support: Call WIC 1‑800‑WIC‑WINS (1‑800‑942‑9467) to connect to local support that may point you to children’s clothing and school‑readiness items. (pa.gov)
• Utility shutoff help if purchases put you behind: Call PA PUC at 1‑800‑692‑7380 for consumer rights, then ask your utility for CAP/OnTrack/TAP options; tap Dollar Energy Fund for one‑time grants. (puc.pa.gov)

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What’s the fastest way to get a free backpack in Pennsylvania?

Start with school‑run and city‑run events. Philadelphia’s School District runs a Back‑to‑School Celebration & Bus Tour that hands out free backpacks, gives enrollment help, and offers immunizations at select stops; check dates and locations on Ring the Bell PHL and call 215‑400‑4000 if you need details or language access. Pittsburgh Public Schools and community partners host large “Back‑to‑School Bash” events with backpacks, haircuts, and supplies—watch PPS and local media updates, and use PA 211 Southwest to locate dates. (philasd.org)

For nonprofit drives, two state powerhouses are worth knowing. In Philadelphia, Cradles to Crayons distributes backpacks through partner agencies and school districts; you must connect with a listed partner to order a backpack for your child. In Pittsburgh and neighboring counties, The Education Partnership equips high‑need schools and supports public backpack drives in partnership with media and United Way; ask your school office if it is a partner school or watch “Pack the Bus” announcements. (cradlestocrayons.org)

Salvation Army corps across Western PA and Greater Philadelphia hold annual back‑to‑school bashes with backpacks, school uniforms, and sometimes free haircuts; some sites require registration and ZIP‑code eligibility, so call your local corps listed on Salvation Army WPA or the Greater Philadelphia page before you go. Always bring a photo ID and proof of address if listed on the event page. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school’s Homeless Liaison (McKinney‑Vento) for immediate supplies and transportation help; find them via PDE Homeless Education and the ECYEH liaison directory. Also text your ZIP to 898‑211 on PA 211 and request a live agent to search for “back‑to‑school supplies” and “clothing closet” in your ZIP. (pa.gov)

Statewide programs every single mom should tap first

County Assistance Office help and COMPASS uploads

Your County Assistance Office (CAO) can’t hand you a backpack, but it can unlock cash and related support that covers supplies fast. Apply for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or renew benefits online at COMPASS, then use the document upload to speed decisions. To visit or call your CAO, use the CAO directory and the DHS HelpLine 1‑800‑692‑7462 for status checks and document questions. Expect 10–15 business days for a non‑expedited decision; ask your worker if hardship notes can flag urgency. (pa.gov)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the DHS Consumer Service Center 1‑866‑550‑4355 for phone applications and escalation, and ask your CAO about same‑day “good cause” appointments if your case is pending and school starts next week. You can also request advocacy from a local Community Action Agency using the CAAP agency finder or DCED’s CSBG list. (pa.gov)

McKinney‑Vento Homeless Education (immediate school‑based help)

If you’re doubled‑up, in a shelter, in a motel, or fleeing violence, tell the school you’re “McKinney‑Vento.” Schools must enroll immediately, provide needed supplies, and arrange transport. Start at PDE Homeless Education and call the regional ECYEH coordinator for your county using the state directory. Ask for backpack/supply vouchers, bus passes, and Title I set‑aside help. (pa.gov)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the state coordinator listed on PDE’s page if your liaison doesn’t respond within 2 business days, and ask a nearby Intermediate Unit (IU) ECYEH site for a direct connection. You can also get a list of community agencies serving homeless families using Finding Your Way in PA. (pa.gov)

Cradles to Crayons (Philadelphia metro)

Cradles to Crayons does not serve families directly; you must connect through a Service Partner or your child’s school. Use the family map and partner list on Cradles to Crayons — Family Assistance to find a partner that can place a “KidPack” or “Backpack” order; standard turnaround is about one week, and emergencies can be fulfilled in 72 hours through partner requests. For August/September, backpacks are distributed in bulk to districts and partners—ask your school office if it’s included. (cradlestocrayons.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your case manager to enroll your family with a listed Service Partner so they can submit your order via the portal, or contact your school’s family support staff to place a request. If you can travel, some city YMCAs host events with C2C partners—watch Philadelphia YMCA events. (philaymca.org)

The Education Partnership (Pittsburgh region)

The Education Partnership supplies teachers and students in high‑need schools across SW‑PA and also supports public drives like “Pack the Bus.” Families should call their school office to see if it’s a partner school, then watch announcements posted by The Education Partnership and media partners (e.g., WPXI’s 11 Cares). These drives help tens of thousands of students each year in Allegheny and surrounding counties. (theeducationpartnership.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Check local partners like Homeless Children’s Education Fund and South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) for distribution days, and keep searching PA 211 for pop‑up drives. (homelessfund.org)

Salvation Army back‑to‑school events (multiple counties)

Local corps host “Back‑to‑School Bashes” with backpacks, school supplies, clothes, and haircuts. Registration policies differ (often K‑12, child present, proof of residence). Confirm dates and eligibility with your closest corps on Western PA Division and the Greater Philadelphia events feed. Call first; some locations cap registrations by ZIP code and require students to attend in person. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask PA 211 for church drives and town “Back‑to‑School Bashes” in your ZIP, and check your city parks department or housing authority—Philadelphia Housing Authority’s block party included a book‑bag giveaway in August 2025. (pa211.org)

United Way “Stuff the Bus” drives (county variations)

Many county United Ways distribute backpacks through school districts or partner agencies—not directly to individuals. For example, Dauphin/Cumberland/Perry counties run a Day of Caring “Stuff the Bus,” while Bucks, Franklin, Schuylkill, Greene, and Lebanon counties post county‑specific sign‑ups and pickup details. Look up your county’s United Way and ask if families can register or if supplies go straight to schools. See United Way of the Capital Region — Stuff the Bus, United Way of Bucks County — Get Help, and Franklin County — Stuff the Bus. (uwcr.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your school district’s main office to ask where donated backpacks are being distributed, and keep checking PA 211 for late‑season events. Some churches and civic groups do “last call” drives in late August. (pa211.org)

Eligibility basics, documents, and how to apply (by program)

Use the table below to match your situation to a fast path. Bring ID for you, proof of your child’s school or age, and proof of address when required.

(pa.gov)

Required documents — quick list (screenshot‑friendly)

• Bring: Photo ID (you), child’s name and school or grade, proof of address (utility bill or mail), and any event registration email. For ECYEH, lack of records may not delay enrollment.
• Save digital copies: Use myCOMPASS PA to scan/upload benefits documents from your phone, and keep a notes app list of each child’s sizes and teacher supply lists for event days. (pa.gov)

How to use state cash/benefits to cover school costs

TANF cash can legally cover school supplies and clothing. Apply or renew through COMPASS or your CAO; review TANF basics on DHS TANF. SNAP cannot buy non‑food items like notebooks or backpacks—plan your budget accordingly. See USDA’s “What Can SNAP Buy?” to avoid checkout surprises. DHS TANF, USDA SNAP eligible foods. (pa.gov)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your CAO worker if your case notes can reflect urgent school needs when scheduling your interview, and request community referrals. If you’re working or training, apply for Child Care Works (CCW) so child‑care costs don’t crowd out your supply budget. (pa.gov)

Pennsylvania‑specific savings tips that actually matter

• Most clothing is sales‑tax‑exempt in PA: Shoes, jeans, and everyday kids’ clothes are exempt from sales tax statewide, but backpacks are taxable. Confirm exemptions in the state’s sales/use tax guidance and business one‑stop hub before you shop. See PA Department of Revenue — Sales & Use Tax and PA Business One‑Stop Shop. (pa.gov)
• Plan around school events: Philadelphia’s district bus tour and mall partners list exact dates/locations; Pittsburgh’s “Pack the Bus” and PPS Bash post pickup rules (child present, first‑come). Bookmark Ring the Bell PHL and WPXI Pack the Bus coverage for reminders. (philasd.org)

Reality Check — how long does this take?

• Cradles to Crayons orders: Usually about one business week from partner order to pickup, with 72‑hour emergency processing if approved. Cradles to Crayons partner FAQ. (cradlestocrayons.org)
• United Way “Stuff the Bus”: Most counties move supplies to schools; you may not see a direct pickup option. Check your county’s United Way page for family registration windows. UW Capital Region, UW Bucks — Get Help. (uwcr.org)
• CAO benefit approvals: Non‑crisis decisions often take 10–15 business days; ask for interview slots and upload docs via myCOMPASS PA. For crisis energy situations (LIHEAP season), see dates below. (pa.gov)

Programs and timelines — quick comparison

(philasd.org)

Resources by Region — where to check first

Philadelphia and the collar counties

Start with the School District’s Ring the Bell PHL schedule for free backpacks, immunizations at select sites, and enrollment help. Add Cradles to Crayons Family Assistance through a Service Partner, and scan Philly YMCAs for free backpack days with C2C, One House at a Time, and Reading Captains. If you live in PHA housing, watch for PHA’s block party book‑bag giveaways. (philasd.org)

• Plan B: Use PA 211 for neighborhood churches and community festivals listing book‑bag tables, and apply for Child Care Works (CCW) so child‑care copays don’t crowd your supply budget next month. (pa211.org)

Pittsburgh and Southwestern PA

Check The Education Partnership updates and media partners (e.g., “Pack the Bus”), then call your child’s school to confirm if it’s a partner. For public events, search PA 211 Southwest and your local Salvation Army WPA corps page. Families in shelter or transitional housing can ask Homeless Children’s Education Fund for backpack distribution windows through partner agencies. (wpxi.com)

• Plan B: Ask South Hills Interfaith Movement for school‑supply distribution dates and confirm school‑district‑specific eligibility (Baldwin‑Whitehall, Keystone Oaks, etc.). Use SHIM updates and PA 211. (shimcares.org)

South Central (Harrisburg, York, Lancaster, Cumberland, Perry)

Look at county United Way “Stuff the Bus” pages and local lawmaker or park events. For example, United Way of the Capital Region runs a Day of Caring “Stuff the Bus” with drop‑off sites and school distribution, and Lancaster regularly hosts large school‑readiness events with free supplies and services. Search United Way’s site and confirm whether families can register or if supplies go school‑direct. UW Capital Region — Stuff the Bus, Lancaster Rec back‑to‑school event. (uwcr.org)

• Plan B: Contact your district’s Homeless Liaison via ECYEH Region 2 (Berks/Chester/Lancaster/Lebanon/Schuylkill/Dauphin) for direct school‑based supplies. Or ask your local Community Action agency via CAAP’s finder. (ecyehpennsylvania.center-school.org)

Lehigh Valley and Northeast (Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton; Scranton/Wilkes‑Barre)

Watch for county “Back‑to‑School Bash” announcements from civic and faith groups and Hispanic community organizations that include free haircuts and backpacks. Use Lehigh Valley News coverage for examples and check your United Way pages. For Scranton/Wilkes‑Barre, contact your IU ECYEH team (Region 7) for school‑supplies referrals to shelters and districts. LIU18 ECYEH Region 7. (lehighvalleynews.com)

• Plan B: Use the ECYEH liaison finder to reach your district contact and ask about Title I parent centers with supplies. Search PA 211 for “school supplies” + your ZIP. (ecyehpennsylvania.center-school.org)

Northwest (Erie and nearby counties)

Look for United Way of Erie County drives tied to Community Schools and team promotions; news outlets advertise ticket‑for‑donation incentives during baseball games. Also watch local organizations hosting clear‑backpack giveaways aligned with city school policies. Start with your district office and check Erie News Now coverage for yearly partners. (erienewsnow.com)

• Plan B: Call PA 211 Northwest at 1‑855‑567‑5341 and ask for “back‑to‑school” and “clothing closet” referrals in your ZIP. For homeless or near‑homeless youth, use your IU ECYEH contact (Region 5) listed on PDE Locations & Projects. (211wny.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for the “perfect” event: Most drives are first‑come with limited stock. Register early when required and bring your child if rules say “student must be present.” Check Salvation Army event notes and district bus tour pages. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Assuming SNAP covers school supplies: SNAP can’t buy non‑food items like notebooks, pencils, or backpacks; confirm your cart against USDA rules. See USDA SNAP eligible foods. (fns.usda.gov)
• Not asking the school for help: McKinney‑Vento liaisons can provide supplies and solve transport issues quickly; use PDE Homeless Education to reach them. (pa.gov)

Reality Check — funding gaps, long lines, and denials

Funding is annual and runs out. Big events empty fast. Always ask “What if you run out?” and request alternate pickup sites. Keep PA 211 and your district liaison in your contacts. (pa211.org)

Some services only serve through partner agencies. Cradles to Crayons ships through Service Partners and districts—families cannot pick up at the warehouse. Confirm your partner connection before you request. See C2C Family Assistance. (cradlestocrayons.org)

School supplies are taxable; clothes usually aren’t. Pennsylvania exempts most clothing but taxes backpacks. Plan purchases to reduce out‑of‑pocket. Check PA Revenue — Sales & Use Tax and Business One‑Stop Shop. (pa.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

(pa211.org)

Application Checklist — print or screenshot

• Child’s info: Name, grade, school district, teacher (if known). Add clothing/shoe sizes for events.
• Your ID and address: Photo ID, recent mail or utility bill with your name and address.
• Event proof: Registration email or QR code if required; event rules (ZIP code or “student must be present”).
• Backups: Two extra event options from PA 211 search in case the first runs out.
• School contact: Your district’s Homeless Liaison and the main office number saved on your phone. (pa211.org)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Pennsylvania today

If school shopping pushed a bill behind, protect your service first. Shutoffs derail everything from homework to bath time.

• Call your utility and enroll in a Customer Assistance Program (CAP/OnTrack/PCAP): Every major utility in PA has an income‑based plan that lowers bills and can forgive past‑due balances. Start with your utility’s CAP line and confirm you’re added to the protection list while your application is pending. Use the PA PUC assistance page for utility contacts (PECO, PPL, FirstEnergy companies, UGI, Peoples, PGW). PA PUC Utility Assistance Programs. (puc.pa.gov)
• Apply for LIHEAP when the season is open: For 2024‑25, LIHEAP ran November 4, 2024 through April 4, 2025 with cash grants from $200–$1,000 depending on fuel type and income. For crisis help (shutoff/empty tank), ask your CAO. Apply on COMPASS and watch the 2025‑26 dates this fall. PA LIHEAP. (pa.gov)
• Ask for a hardship grant if funds exist: Dollar Energy Fund grants open and close by utility and season; some programs require you to try LIHEAP/CRISIS first. Call 1‑888‑282‑6816 or use your utility’s Dollar Energy link (e.g., FirstEnergy, Columbia Gas). (dollarenergy.org)
• Know Pennsylvania’s winter shutoff rules: From December 1 to March 31, most utilities cannot terminate service for households at or below 250% of the federal poverty level (PGW’s threshold differs). If a family member has a serious medical condition, you can delay shutoff with a medical certificate. Call the PUC consumer line 1‑800‑692‑7380 for rights and complaint options. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Philadelphia water bills: Apply for the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP) for an income‑based monthly bill and debt forgiveness after consistent payments; call 215‑685‑6300 for help. If you don’t qualify by income, ask about “Special Hardship.” See PWD’s assistance hub and City updates. PWD Assistance, City Revenue — TAP overview. (water.phila.gov)
• Accessibility: If you are Deaf/Hard of Hearing, dial 711 for TRS or use PUC relay contacts. See FCC 711 TRS and PA PUC Relay. (fcc.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for a medical certificate delay (doctor’s note) and a payment agreement, then call the PUC to file an informal complaint. Also call PA 211 to reach local agencies that process Dollar Energy Fund applications. (puc.pa.gov)

Diverse Communities — tailored pointers before the regional list

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Start here: Ask your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison for immediate supplies and safe‑school supports, and use PA 211 to locate LGBTQ‑affirming clothing closets and youth centers for back‑to‑school drives. If you need confidential assistance, request a callback window and note safety concerns. (ecyehpennsylvania.center-school.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for supports: Contact OVR (Office of Vocational Rehabilitation) if you need adaptive equipment or work stabilization, and ask your district for special‑education supply accommodations. For ECYEH students with IEPs, liaisons must coordinate services—use PDE Homeless Education. (pa.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Use veteran‑specific navigators: When you dial PA 211, ask for SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) referrals that can cover basics while your children get school supplies. Confirm school‑supply events with your local VA‑partner agency and your district liaison via ECYEH. (pa211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Ask for language access: Schools must provide interpretation; request translated flyers for backpack events and ask PA 211 for chat translation. See PA 211 language access and PDE contact. (unitedwayglv.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Coordinate through schools and IUs: While Pennsylvania has no reservations like Western states, families identifying as Native/Indigenous should request culturally‑appropriate support via the district liaison and regional ECYEH coordinators listed on PDE Locations & Projects. Use PA 211 to search for Native community groups in your metro. (pa.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited transport: Use phone‑first strategies: Have a PA 211 navigator identify drives that don’t require long trips and ask your district about bus‑routed backpack drops. For shipping‑based items (KidPacks), work through Cradles to Crayons partners and ask for emergency ordering if needed. (pa211.org)
• Single fathers: All programs apply: McKinney‑Vento rights and backpack events cover all caregivers. Use the same steps—PDE Homeless Education, PA 211, and county United Way pages. (pa.gov)
• Language access and accessibility: Ask for large‑print or translated applications: Call event hosts and your district to request large‑print forms, interpreters, or disability accommodations. For phone calls, use 711 TRS or PA relay contacts. (fcc.gov)

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Local organizations, churches, and support groups (examples you can call)

• Philadelphia: Cradles to Crayons Family Assistance through Service Partners; Philadelphia Housing Authority block party book‑bag events; Philadelphia YMCA events with school supplies. (cradlestocrayons.org)
• Pittsburgh area: The Education Partnership, Homeless Children’s Education Fund, and Salvation Army WPA backpack days. (theeducationpartnership.org)
• Lehigh Valley: Hispanic Center LV school‑supply and free haircut events; PA 211 for week‑of referrals. (lehighvalleynews.com)
• Erie: United Way Erie Community Schools supply drives; PA 211 Northwest hotline for backpack events. (erienewsnow.com)

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Quick Tables you can scan

Table: Where to find school supplies fast by location

(philasd.org)

Table: Phone numbers you can call today

(pa.gov)

Table: What each major program does

(pa.gov)

Table: Utility help you may need at the same time

(puc.pa.gov)

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If your application or request gets denied

• School events or ECYEH: Ask for the written reason and use the district’s dispute process. Contact your regional coordinator on PDE’s Homeless Education page for help. (pa.gov)
• Cradles to Crayons: If a partner can’t place an order, switch to another partner from the C2C partner map or ask your school family liaison to submit. (cradlestocrayons.org)
• United Way drives: If a list is full, ask for wait‑list and “late returns” (unclaimed backpacks sometimes get re‑assigned) and check PA 211 for church events that same week. (pa211.org)
• State benefits: Call the DHS HelpLine with your record number and ask for a supervisor callback. Upload missing documents through myCOMPASS PA. (pa.gov)

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FAQs (longer answers)

1. How do I get a free backpack in Philadelphia if I missed the Bus Tour?
   Check the final Ring the Bell PHL stop list, then call your school office to ask about any leftover supplies and parent centers. If that fails, connect to Cradles to Crayons through a Service Partner. Use PA 211 to find neighborhood festivals or YMCA events that include book‑bag tables. (philasd.org)
2. Can SNAP buy notebooks or backpacks?
   No. SNAP is for food only. It cannot buy non‑food like paper, pencils, or backpacks. See the USDA’s official “What Can SNAP Buy?” and plan your cash around that rule. USDA SNAP eligible foods. (fns.usda.gov)
3. What if we’re doubled‑up with relatives and we don’t have utility bills in our name?
   Tell the school you’re eligible under McKinney‑Vento and ask the liaison to help with immediate supplies and enrollment. You do not need typical residency proofs for school enrollment under this law. Start with PDE Homeless Education. (pa.gov)
4. How fast can I get a KidPack or backpack from Cradles to Crayons?
   Partners report about a one‑week turnaround for standard orders, with emergency orders in 72 hours when approved. Use the Family Assistance page and ask your partner to mark urgent. (cradlestocrayons.org)
5. I live near Pittsburgh—do I go straight to The Education Partnership?
   Families don’t shop there directly. Your child’s teacher or school accesses supplies, and public drives distribute to families. Ask if your school is a partner and watch media partners like WPXI’s 11 Cares. The Education Partnership, WPXI Pack the Bus. (theeducationpartnership.org)
6. Is there a Pennsylvania sales‑tax holiday for school supplies?
   No. But most clothing is tax‑exempt year‑round in PA, while backpacks are taxable. Check the state guidance before you shop. PA Revenue — Sales & Use Tax, Business One‑Stop Shop. (pa.gov)
7. Where can I find county‑by‑county Community Action help for supplies or referrals?
   Use the state association’s agency finder and DCED’s CSBG list to locate the office serving your county. Ask about school‑supply drives, clothing closets, and case management. CAAP — Find an Agency, DCED CSBG Agency List. (thecaap.org)
8. What if my power is about to be shut off the week school starts?
   Call your utility’s CAP line and ask for a shutoff hold while you apply. If you’re within winter months, check the state’s protections; outside of winter, ask for Dollar Energy Fund and medical certificate options. PA PUC Assistance, Dollar Energy. (puc.pa.gov)
9. Which phone app helps me keep paperwork straight?
   Use myCOMPASS PA to upload documents and check application status, then save photos of event flyers and registrations in your phone gallery. For 211 chat with translation, use PA 211 online. (pa.gov)
10. Our school doesn’t advertise any supply help—what do I say when I call?
    Ask the main office: “Who is the McKinney‑Vento liaison or family support contact?” Then ask, “Do you have district or Title I supplies for families?” If they say no, request the liaison’s email and call your regional ECYEH coordinator for direct assistance. PDE Homeless Education, ECYEH regional contacts. (pa.gov)

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Spanish summary — Resumen en español (producido con herramientas de IA)

• Dónde conseguir mochilas gratis: Revise el calendario del distrito escolar en Ring the Bell PHL (Filadelfia) y los eventos de The Education Partnership (Pittsburgh). Llame a PA 211 (marque 2‑1‑1 o envíe su código postal al 898‑211) para encontrar distribuciones cercanas. (philasd.org)
• Si está sin vivienda o “doblada”: Pida ayuda al enlace escolar de McKinney‑Vento para inscribir a su hijo de inmediato y recibir útiles. Vea Educación para Estudiantes sin Hogar (PDE). (pa.gov)
• Programas en Filadelfia: Cradles to Crayons trabaja por medio de agencias socias; pida a su trabajador social que haga el pedido. Para agua, aplique a TAP (factura basada en ingresos). (cradlestocrayons.org)
• Beneficios estatales: Use COMPASS para TANF y otros; SNAP no cubre útiles escolares. Vea USDA — Qué se puede comprar con SNAP. (pa.gov)
• Ayuda con servicios públicos: Llame al PUC para programas CAP/OnTrack/CRP y a Dollar Energy Fund para subvenciones. (puc.pa.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS)
• Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) — Homeless Education
• PA 211 — United Way of Pennsylvania
• Cradles to Crayons — Philadelphia
• The Education Partnership — Pittsburgh
• Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC)
• Philadelphia Water Department — TAP
• Dollar Energy Fund

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. It links to official state, school district, and nonprofit resources, but it is not legal advice or an eligibility guarantee. Always confirm dates, stock, and eligibility with the program or office listed. For accessibility or language help, request accommodations from your district and call 711 for TRS if needed. Use PA 211 and your local County Assistance Office for personalized guidance. (pa211.org)

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What to do next (simple plan)

• Pick two events and one backup: Use PA 211 and your region’s links to lock in where you’ll go this week.
• Add school contacts: Save your district liaison and main office phone.
• Upload benefits: Use myCOMPASS PA to keep TANF/MA/SNAP current while you cover school costs. (pa211.org)

Good luck—you’ve got a plan, live links, and numbers that work.

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🏛️More Pennsylvania Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Pennsylvania

• 📋 Assistance Programs
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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
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• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• 🤝 Community Support
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• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
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• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery