Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in Virginia
Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, Virginia-specific guide to getting free school supplies and backpacks fast, plus backup plans if funding runs out. Every paragraph includes direct links to the exact offices, agencies, and programs you can contact today.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take:
- Call or text 2‑1‑1 and ask for “back‑to‑school supply events near me,” then confirm date, location, and ID needed with the operator. Use the online listings on 211 Virginia and filter by “Back to School,” and ask for any school-based distributions at your child’s campus. Check again tomorrow—listings change. (211virginia.org)
- Contact your school’s social worker or McKinney‑Vento liaison and ask for supplies to be held for your child. Find your division’s homeless education contact through Project HOPE‑Virginia and your division homepage at Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). If you have unstable housing, say this clearly—support is immediate. (projecthopevirginia.org)
- Use Virginia’s 3‑day Sales Tax Holiday when it comes back in August 2026; for 2025 it ran Aug 1‑3 and covered school supplies up to 20eachandclothing/footwearupto20 each and clothing/footwear up to 100—mark your calendar for next year and plan a small list. See the official rules at Virginia Tax and last summer’s news post at Virginia Tax News. (tax.virginia.gov)
Quick Help Box – Keep These 5 Contacts Handy:
- VDSS Enterprise Customer Service Center (apply by phone for SNAP/TANF/Energy Assistance) at 1‑855‑635‑4370 and the local office finder at Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). For general agency info, use 1‑804‑726‑7000 at Virginia.gov VDSS. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Cover Virginia (Medicaid/FAMIS coverage questions) 1‑833‑5CALLVA and local assister map at CoverVA—ask for free application help by phone or in person. Find help in your area. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Virginia Energy Assistance Program (for crisis heat/utility help that can stop shutoffs) at VDSS Energy Assistance and printer-friendly contact page at VDSS Energy Assistance (print view). Timelines change each season—call to confirm. (dss.virginia.gov)
- State utility rules and complaint help: Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) Electricity FAQs and the disconnection notice law at Virginia Code §56‑245.1:4—know your 60‑day arrears protections. (scc.virginia.gov)
- SNAP and WIC for school‑week food gaps: VDSS SNAP with FY2025 allotments, and Virginia WIC at the Virginia Department of Health. Apply now; benefits help stretch supply budgets. (dss.virginia.gov)
How This Guide Works:
You’ll find the fastest actions first for single moms in Virginia: school‑based supply pick‑ups, large county events, and backup plans if an event is out of stock. Each program lists who qualifies, how to apply, documents to bring, and realistic timelines. See the statewide tables for a quick overview, and the by‑region section to target help near you. Use VDOE for school contacts and VDSS for benefits that support your school spending plan. (content.govdelivery.com)
Key 2025–2026 Dates Virginians Should Know:
- Back‑to‑School distributions happen July–September: Many divisions host large events late July/early August; supplies go fast, so preregister when links open. Check postings on your division’s website and look up community events via 211 Virginia. (211virginia.org)
- Virginia’s Sales Tax Holiday ran August 1–3, 2025: It covered school supplies up to 20peritemandclothing/footwearupto20 per item and clothing/footwear up to 100 per item; hurricane and energy‑efficient items also qualified. Expect similar dates in early August 2026; confirm at Virginia Tax each July. (tax.virginia.gov)
- School meal programs restart with changes: Many Virginia schools use Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) so breakfast/lunch cost $0; others require new applications each year. District messages at VDOE nutrition updates and CEP examples at Bristol Virginia Public Schools show 2025‑26 rollouts. (content.govdelivery.com)
Table: Virginia’s Most Reliable School Supply & Backpack Sources (2025)
| Program | Who Qualifies | What You Get | How to Apply | Typical Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collect for Kids – Fairfax County | FCPS students referred by school social workers | Backpacks/supply kits delivered through schools | Ask your school social worker; FCPS notes donations flow via partners, not at central office: see FCPS Donate page | July–September; distribution at schools (collectforkids.org) |
| NVFS Back2School – Northern Virginia Family Service | Families served by NVFS and partners in NoVA | New backpacks with grade‑level supplies | Watch for summer registration posts; contact NVFS if you’re a current client | July–August (1,500+ served in 2025) (nvfs.org) |
| Henrico Schools Back‑to‑School Kickoff | HCPS students/families | Free backpacks and supplies at event (while supplies last) | Attend division‑wide event; check FACE page for details | Late July (10 a.m.–8 p.m. at Sports & Events Center) (henricoschools.us) |
| ACPS Backpack & Supply Drive – Alexandria City | ACPS students in need | Backpack plus supplies by grade | Pre‑register if posted; school pick‑up per ACPS | Early August (goal: 3,500 backpacks in 2025) (acps.k12.va.us) |
| Prince William – SPARK “Project Backpack” | PWCS students in schools served by SPARK | Backpacks and extra supply boxes | Distributed via schools and community event | Mid‑July drive; early August distribution (5,000+ via partners in 2025) (poweredbyspark.org) |
| Salvation Army “Write Stuff” – Hampton Roads | K–12 in Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth | Free backpack with supplies | Attend Kroc Center/Portsmouth Corps distributions; bring ID, proof of residency, child’s birth certificate | Aug 8–9 windows; first‑come, first‑served (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| United Way of Southwest VA – Stuff the Bus | Students in 21 localities SWVA/NRV | School supplies delivered to districts | Donations all July; schools distribute to kids | July collections; Aug school delivery (unitedwayswva.org) |
| Charlottesville/Albemarle Back‑to‑School Bash | CCS & ACPS families | Free backpacks/supplies; vaccines/sports physicals | Event registration encouraged; Ting Pavilion | Early August (10 a.m.–12 p.m.) (k12albemarle.org) |
What To Expect and How to Prepare:
Supplies go first to the schools and divisions with the highest need, and most programs prioritize students identified by school staff. Ask your school’s office for the social worker or family liaison, then request a backpack or kit to be held at the front office. Look up division contacts via VDOE and, if needed, call 2‑1‑1 Virginia to confirm public events and required documents. If your child is covered by McKinney‑Vento (homeless education), your liaison can arrange transportation and supplies quickly through Project HOPE‑Virginia. (projecthopevirginia.org)
Eligibility Rules, Documents, and Wait Times:
Bring a photo ID for you, proof of your child’s school or grade, and something that shows your address (lease, letter from school, mail). Events often require children to be present. Schools may ask no questions about income; nonprofits sometimes request proof you live in the service area. For public benefits that support school budgets, use SNAP with FY2025 maximum allotments and consider short‑term cash via TANF/DA if a one‑time crisis threatens your budget. Non‑crisis applications usually take 10–15 business days; crisis energy help can move faster through VDSS Energy Assistance. (dss.virginia.gov)
Table: Virginia’s Back‑to‑School Calendar (Examples from 2025)
| Area | Major event | Date window | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | Sales Tax Holiday | Aug 1–3, 2025 | School supplies ≤20/item;clothing≤20/item; clothing ≤100/item at Virginia Tax. (tax.virginia.gov) |
| Henrico (Central) | HCPS Back‑to‑School Kickoff | July 31, 2025 | Free backpacks/supplies while they last at Sports & Events Center. Henrico Schools. (henricoschools.us) |
| Alexandria (NoVA) | ACPS Backpack Drive | Early Aug 2025 | Goal 3,500 backpacks; preregister online. ACPS. (acps.k12.va.us) |
| Prince William (NoVA) | PWCS community event | First Sat in Aug 2025 | 5,000+ backpacks via partners at Gar‑Field HS. PWCS news. (pwcs.edu) |
| Charlottesville/Albemarle | Back‑to‑School Bash | Aug 2, 2025 | Free backpacks, vaccines, physicals at Ting Pavilion. ACPS. (k12albemarle.org) |
| Hampton Roads | Salvation Army “Write Stuff” | Aug 8–9, 2025 | Kroc Center and Portsmouth sites; documents required. Salvation Army HR. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| Southwest/NRV | United Way SWVA “Stuff the Bus” | July (donations), Aug (school delivery) | Supplies distributed to 21 localities. UWSWVA. (unitedwayswva.org) |
Step‑by‑Step: Get Supplies Through Your School First
- Ask the school social worker for a backpack today: Schools coordinate with coalitions like Collect for Kids (FCPS) and foundations like SPARK (PWCS)—you don’t need to chase every event yourself. If your division is CEP, meals are free and no application is needed; check your school’s status through VDOE CEP guidance. (poweredbyspark.org)
- If you have unstable housing, mention McKinney‑Vento: Transportation, enrollment without documents, fee waivers, and basic supplies are available via your division liaison listed with Project HOPE‑Virginia. Keep notes of who you spoke with and when. VDOE can direct you if you can’t reach the liaison. (projecthopevirginia.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal to email the division Family Engagement office and hold a kit under your child’s name. Then call 211 Virginia to locate church/nonprofit events still open this week. If transportation is the barrier, ask the school for a bus pass or talk to CoverVA about managed care plan rides for medical appointments that align with nearby distributions. (211virginia.org)
Statewide Programs That Indirectly Free Up School Money
- SNAP (food money on an EBT card): Reduces your grocery bill so you can put cash toward supplies. Income thresholds and FY2025 allotments are posted at VDSS SNAP; students on SNAP are directly certified for free school meals, easing school costs, per VDOE update on SNAP in Schools. (dss.virginia.gov)
- TANF and Diversionary Assistance (DA): If one‑time help keeps you off ongoing TANF, DA can cover urgent needs (transport, child care, uniforms) per VDSS TANF; apply on CommonHelp or by phone. Ask the worker if DA is faster than a TANF case in your county. (dss.virginia.gov)
- WIC (for kids under 5): Monthly food benefits, breast‑feeding support, and nutrition counseling through Virginia WIC—this can free dollars for supplies, especially if you have toddlers. Bring your ID and immunization card to your first appointment. (vdh.virginia.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get through online, call VDSS Customer Service at 1‑855‑635‑4370 and ask for a callback window. For application troubleshooting, use VDSS Contact and request a supervisor if you miss a document deadline. (dss.virginia.gov)
Table: Documents You’ll Usually Need (Print/Screenshot‑Friendly)
| Checkbox | Document | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|---|
| [ ] | Your photo ID (license or state ID) | Confirms parent/guardian identity at events/benefits |
| [ ] | Proof of child’s school/grade (report card, portal page) | Confirms eligibility for school‑based kits |
| [ ] | Proof of address (lease, mail, school letter) | Confirms you live in the service area |
| [ ] | Benefit letters (SNAP/TANF/WIC/Medicaid) | May speed eligibility at nonprofits |
| [ ] | Birth certificate or custody papers (if requested) | Needed by some events (e.g., Salvation Army) |
| [ ] | Phone with email/text | For confirmations and pick‑up codes |
Reference rules vary by program—always check the details on your event’s page and your division site at VDOE. (211virginia.org)
Regional Resources You Can Use Right Now
Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun, Prince William)
Start with your school’s social worker for in‑school kits. In Fairfax, the Collect for Kids coalition coordinates donations through FCPS and partners; families receive supplies through schools rather than public pick‑ups. For Alexandria, follow the ACPS Backpack & Supply Drive page; 2025’s goal was 3,500 backpacks, and drop‑off points open in July. (collectforkids.org)
If you’re in Prince William, watch SPARK’s Project Backpack and the PWCS community event updates at PWCS News—thousands of backpacks were given out in early August 2025 at Gar‑Field HS. Loudoun families can ask school counselors about pantry and weekend food support via the Loudoun Education Foundation “Fueled” program and look to United Way NCA’s Stuff the Bus for regional drives. (pwcs.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Arlington moms can call APS at 1‑703‑228‑8000 (see APS Back‑to‑School Starter Kit), ask for the Student Services office, and request supplies via the school. Also search 211 Virginia and your local library’s events calendar. (apsva.us)
Central Virginia (Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield)
Henrico’s division‑wide kickoff on July 31 included backpack giveaways; follow updates and donation drives at Henrico Schools and local coverage like Henrico Citizen. In Richmond, radio‑sponsored “Prep for Success” bashes and youth org events offer free supplies—verify dates on Richmond Free Press and listings via NextUp RVA. (henricoschools.us)
Chesterfield moms can ask school counselors and check church drives like Southminster Presbyterian’s School Supply Drive (often partnering with county supports). Keep an eye on Virginia Tax’s holiday page to stretch any purchases each August. (southpreschurch.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal to email the Family & Community Engagement lead to flag your need and hold a kit at the office. Also dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for “school supply events in Richmond and Henrico this week.” (211virginia.org)
Hampton Roads / Tidewater (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Newport News, Hampton, Suffolk)
Look first to the Salvation Army Hampton Roads “Write Stuff” distribution at the Kroc Center/Portsmouth Corps (bring ID, proof of residency, birth certificates). Norfolk hosts joint school/city events like Unity in the Community Back 2 School Celebration; local law firms and businesses sometimes run public backpack giveaways. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Virginia Beach families should call the school’s social worker and check VBCPS for supply notes; also ask about the Beach Bags weekend food program to offset costs during the year. Chesapeake and Portsmouth families can search 211 Virginia by ZIP code and ask for “school supply” filters. (vbschools.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school to connect you to a partner like Volunteers of America – Operation Backpack, and call 1‑757‑543‑8100 at the Hampton Roads Area Command for late‑season help. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Southwest, Roanoke Valley, and New River Valley
The United Way of Southwest VA “Stuff the Bus” drive runs across 21 localities; supplies go directly to schools before the first day. Watch local TV posts like WSLS “Load the Bus” for drop‑off and pick‑up timing and call your school to ask when kits are on campus. For NRV families, ask local United Way/partners if deliveries were made to your child’s school. (unitedwayswva.org)
If groceries are tight (and supplies cost more this year), check summer and after‑school food programs via the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and WHSV coverage to redirect cash toward supplies. (brafb.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the school office for a “community partner referral for supplies” and check 211 Virginia by city. Churches and civic groups often fill gaps after big events end. (211virginia.org)
Shenandoah Valley, Charlottesville, Piedmont
Charlottesville/Albemarle hosts the Ting Pavilion Back‑to‑School Bash (free backpacks; vaccines/sports physicals). Charlottesville City Schools also list free supply request forms on their Back to School page—supplies are held at your child’s school. Media coverage confirms strong turnout and services; arrive early. (k12albemarle.org)
For the Valley, United Way SAW and local partners often run Stuff the Bus with drop‑off at area stores; ask your school when supplies will be available. Use 211 Virginia if you missed the main event dates. (whsv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Email your principal and copy the division’s Family Engagement/Nutrition director. Ask for CEP or meal application guidance (saves cash for supplies) using VDOE nutrition memos. (content.govdelivery.com)
Eastern Shore (Accomack & Northampton)
Check your school office and division page; local safety rules may require clear backpacks, and some divisions offer help sourcing them for low‑income families—watch local news like Shore Daily News for updates. Search 211 Virginia for county drives and ask principals about partner donations. (shoredailynews.com)
If you commute to Hampton Roads for work, consider large distributions there (see Salvation Army HR). Confirm residency rules before traveling. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the school for a written note stating any clear‑backpack requirement and request a waiver or assistance. If funds are the barrier, apply for SNAP right away at VDSS SNAP to shift grocery money to supplies. (dss.virginia.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Help and Contacts
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your school to connect your teen with inclusive supports; Richmond‑area youth can access drop‑in and support groups at Side by Side and get school training help through Side by Side Schools. For statewide policy/advocacy and family resources, see Equality Virginia and ask 211 for affirming counselors. (sidebysideva.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Early Intervention for ages 0–3 runs through the Infant & Toddler Connection—refer yourself at ITC Virginia or call 1‑800‑234‑1448, and ask for service coordination in your home language. For school‑age IEP help, use PEATC and VDOE’s family page with the 2025 parent survey at VDOE Special Education for Families. (virginianavigator.org)
Veteran single mothers: Contact the Virginia Department of Veterans Services Women Veterans Program for benefits navigation and referrals, and ask your VA Medical Center’s Women Veterans Program Manager about support groups and school‑age resources. Use Operation Homefront to check for Back‑to‑School Brigade listings within driving distance. (dvs.virginia.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: In Charlottesville/Piedmont, the International Rescue Committee provides case management and legal referrals; ask for language access at enrollment and school meetings. For Medicaid/FAMIS in your language, use CoverVA and ask for an interpreter. Schools must provide interpreters for IEPs and key meetings—request this through your school’s office and share your preferred language. (rescue.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Virginia has 7 federally recognized nations and several state‑recognized tribes; families can connect with education supports through the Virginia Tribal Education Consortium (VTEC) and the Commonwealth’s tribal directory at Bluebook – Virginia Indian Tribes. Ask your school to link your student with cultural and scholarship opportunities. (vtecinc.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Ask your managed care plan via CoverVA for transportation benefits to medical appointments and pair the trip with a nearby distribution; also request school‑based pick‑up through your principal or liaison. If you lack broadband, call 211 Virginia to register by phone for events that allow it. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
Single fathers: The same school and nonprofit programs apply. Request supplies through your child’s school social worker, apply for SNAP if money is tight, and ask to be added to school robocalls/emails so you don’t miss distribution dates. Parents with joint custody can each receive information from the school division—ask the registrar to add your contact. (dss.virginia.gov)
Language access and accessibility notes: Tell staff if you need an interpreter, large‑print forms, or TTY service via VDSS TTY 800‑828‑1120. Schools and agencies must provide reasonable accommodations; request this in writing to the office listed on your division’s website. (dss.virginia.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Virginia Today
- Call your utility and set a payment plan immediately: Dominion customers call 1‑866‑366‑4357 (Dominion Energy Virginia). Appalachian Power customers start at Appalachian Power Assistance and ask about Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor grants. (www2.dominionenergy.com)
- Apply for Energy Assistance now: Use VDSS Energy Assistance for Crisis (cutoff notice or no heat), Fuel (Oct–Nov window), or Cooling (summer) help—phone application is allowed. Ask if a security deposit can be covered. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Know your rights before disconnection: Virginia law requires multi‑method notice and bars disconnections until you’re 60 days in arrears for regulated utilities; notices must be in English and Spanish and include payment plan and assistance info. See Code of Virginia §56‑245.1:4 and SCC FAQs. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with the SCC Consumer Division and re‑contact your local DSS for a same‑day letter confirming an active energy assistance case. If you’re a Dominion or APCo customer enrolled in PIPP, confirm your exact PIPP amount due at Dominion Energy – Energy Assistance. (scc.virginia.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Waiting until the week of school: Most big drives happened in late July/early August. Follow your school’s messages and 211 Virginia posts starting in June. Use Virginia Tax’s holiday page for August shopping plans. (211virginia.org)
- Not asking the school social worker: Many kits are held at schools, not at public events. Ask for the social worker or family liaison contact through VDOE and your school’s site. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Skipping benefits that free up cash: Apply for SNAP and confirm CEP meal coverage via VDOE nutrition updates. These save real money you can use for a calculator or shoes. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Assuming events are open to all: Many limit by residency or school; read the fine print on your event page and bring ID/birth certificates as listed on Salvation Army HR. (211virginia.org)
Reality Check: Funding, Delays, and Shortages
Reality Check: Supplies can run out early, and some districts rely on last‑minute donations. Media coverage shows strong demand in Central Virginia and the Valley; food banks also report higher need this year. Confirm event details the day before and line up early; keep a small list ready for the tax‑free weekend. See WHSV/Blue Ridge Area Food Bank updates and Virginia Tax. (brafb.org)
Reality Check: Online portals can be glitchy. If CommonHelp or your county site times out, apply by phone through VDSS Customer Service and keep screenshots of error messages. Ask for a submission confirmation number by phone. (dss.virginia.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Fastest First Step | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack & supplies this week | Call school social worker; ask for a kit at the front office | Search 211 Virginia for events |
| No cash for supplies | Apply SNAP and confirm CEP/free meals via VDOE | Use Sales Tax Holiday for basics next August |
| Utility shutoff notice | Set payment plan with Dominion or APCo today | Apply VDSS Energy Assistance and cite §56‑245.1:4 protections |
| New to the area / language help | Ask school for interpreter; call CoverVA for assisters | Contact IRC Charlottesville if resettled/refugee |
| Child has disabilities | Refer to Infant & Toddler Connection; get IEP help at PEATC | Ask school for emergency supply kit and case manager |
Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)
- School contact made: Social worker/family liaison emailed or called; pickup plan set. Use VDOE division directory for contacts.
- Event confirmed: Date/time/address verified via 211 Virginia; ID and documents ready.
- Benefits in process: SNAP application submitted; WIC appointment set if kids <5.
- Sales Tax plan: Small list built for August holiday (caps: 20supplies/20 supplies/100 clothing at Virginia Tax). (tax.virginia.gov)
- Backup ride: Ask school or CoverVA plan for transportation if you need it. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- School/Nonprofit denial: Ask for the reason in writing and a waitlist option. Then contact 211 Virginia for alternative events, and email your principal to request a donor‑funded kit or gift card through the PTA or education foundation (e.g., SPARK or your local foundation). (poweredbyspark.org)
- SNAP/TANF denial: Request an appeal right away—follow instructions on VDSS Benefits Appeals and keep submitting proof. Reapply if your hours changed or a household member moved out. Use CoverVA for Medicaid questions that affect household budgets. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Energy Assistance denial: Re‑apply if your situation becomes a “crisis” (cutoff notice/no heat), and call your utility again to adjust the plan. Cite §56‑245.1:4 to ask for all required notices and options. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
More Virginia Examples You Can Model
- Fairfax County: Kits flow via school partners through Collect for Kids and Educate Fairfax/FCPS; ask your counselor to submit your child’s name. (collectforkids.org)
- Alexandria: The ACPS Backpack & Supply Drive set a 3,500‑backpack goal for 2025; early action secures your spot. (acps.k12.va.us)
- Richmond/Henrico: Division events and community bashes (see Henrico Schools and Richmond Free Press coverage). (henricoschools.us)
- PWCS: Foundation drives like SPARK’s Project Backpack plus an early‑August PWCS community event. (poweredbyspark.org)
Table: Where to Go for Help by Topic
| Topic | First Stop | Backup/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack today | School social worker; VDOE directory | 211 Virginia |
| Free meals at school | Check CEP status via VDOE nutrition | Apply for meals if required by your school |
| Food at home | SNAP; WIC | Food bank calendars (e.g., Blue Ridge Area Food Bank ) (brafb.org) |
| Utility shutoff | Dominion or APCo | VDSS Energy Assistance; SCC FAQs (dss.virginia.gov) |
| Health coverage | CoverVA | Local assisters via Find Help (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
Tips to Stretch a Tiny Budget (and Still Get What Teachers Want)
- Use the tax holiday list strategically: Teachers often prefer quality notebooks, pencils, and folders—buy those tax‑free within the caps described at Virginia Tax and skip fancy add‑ons until later. Ask the teacher what’s truly required the first week. (tax.virginia.gov)
- Ask for grade‑level swaps at the school: If your child received a kit, the school may swap a wide‑ruled notebook for college‑ruled—ask the social worker or teacher. In NoVA and Richmond, coalitions like NVFS and Henrico FACE tailor kits by grade. (nvfs.org)
- Keep shoes and clothing simple: Stick to the holiday’s $100/item cap if buying new, and call the school nurse or counselor if uniforms are required but you can’t afford them—many schools hold donated sizes. Check 211 Virginia for “clothing closets.” (211virginia.org)
FAQs (Virginia‑Specific, 2025)
- Where can I still get a free backpack after school starts?
Call your school social worker first, then scan 211 Virginia for ongoing events in September. In Central Virginia and Hampton Roads, late‑August/early‑September pop‑ups from partners like Salvation Army HR and youth groups appear each week—always confirm details. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) - Do I have to show proof of income to get school supplies?
Usually no—schools prioritize need based on counselor referrals, and many events only require residency proof. Read requirements on your event page via 211 Virginia and bring ID and proof of address just in case. (211virginia.org) - If I’m new to Virginia, can my child get supplies without all records?
Yes. Under McKinney‑Vento, students experiencing homelessness can enroll without typical documents and get basic supplies and transportation support. Ask for the division liaison listed with Project HOPE‑Virginia. (projecthopevirginia.org) - How can I save the most during the Sales Tax Holiday?
Focus on required items under the caps—20persupplyitemand20 per supply item and 100 per clothing/footwear—published by Virginia Tax and watch your local news for reminders each July. Online orders shipped to Virginia during the window also qualify. (tax.virginia.gov) - My utility is threatening disconnection—will that affect school?
Yes—no power means health and homework issues. Set a plan with your utility today at Dominion Energy Virginia or Appalachian Power and apply for Energy Assistance. Virginia law requires multiple notices and a 60‑day arrears window for regulated utilities. (www2.dominionenergy.com) - Do schools provide free meals even if I don’t qualify by income?
Many do via CEP; some require applications each year. See division notices and VDOE CEP guidance, and call Nutrition Services if unsure. (content.govdelivery.com) - I’m a veteran—any special backpack programs?
Operation Homefront runs Back‑to‑School Brigade events for military families; check Operation Homefront. For benefits navigation and referrals, contact DVS Women Veterans Program. (operationhomefront.org) - My child needs a clear backpack—can schools help?
Some divisions consider clear‑backpack policies; ask your principal about assistance programs or waivers. Track local updates via news like Shore Daily News and request help through the school social worker. (shoredailynews.com) - Where can I get help filling out special education forms?
Use PEATC for Virginia‑specific templates and workshops, and your division’s parent resource center through VDOE. Ask for an interpreter or large print if you need it. (peatc.org) - What are realistic wait times?
School kits: same day to 1 week. Public events: same day while supplies last. SNAP: often 10–15 business days for non‑expedited cases; Energy Crisis: can be resolved within days when funds exist. Always call to confirm availability at VDSS and your local DSS office. (dss.virginia.gov)
Tables: Who to Contact by County/Division (Examples)
| Division/County | Main School Supply Channel | Family Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Fairfax County (FCPS) | Collect for Kids via school | Social Worker at your school; FCPS Office of Social Work 571‑423‑4300 (collectforkids.org) |
| Prince William (PWCS) | SPARK and PWCS event | School admin; PWCS Community Engagement office |
| Henrico County (HCPS) | Back‑to‑School Kickoff | FACE team via HCPS page (henricoschools.us) |
| Alexandria City (ACPS) | Backpack & Supply Drive | School Family Liaison; see ACPS contacts (acps.k12.va.us) |
| Charlottesville/Albemarle | Back‑to‑School Bash | School office; event preregistration link (k12albemarle.org) |
| Benefit | Where to Apply | Phone/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | VDSS SNAP | Apply online/phone; FY2025 allotments posted (dss.virginia.gov) |
| TANF/DA | VDSS TANF | Ask about Diversionary Assistance for one‑time help (dss.virginia.gov) |
| Energy Assistance | VDSS Energy Assistance | Crisis, Fuel, Cooling timelines; phone apps (dss.virginia.gov) |
What to Do If This Still Isn’t Enough
- Ask your school to connect you with partner nonprofits for gift cards or specialty items (graphing calculators, uniforms). In NoVA, reach NVFS; in SWVA, ask your principal about United Way SWVA deliveries. If you’re near Hampton Roads, call Salvation Army HR for remaining stock. (nvfs.org)
- If the barrier is transportation or childcare, tell the organizer. Some divisions provide bus passes or hold items at the office; managed care plans found via CoverVA may offer transportation to medical visits near distribution sites. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA):
Para mochilas y útiles escolares gratis en Virginia, primero contacte al trabajador social de la escuela o al enlace de McKinney‑Vento para pedir un kit a su nombre. Busque eventos abiertos en 211 Virginia y confirme requisitos (identificación, comprobante de domicilio). En el área de Hampton Roads, consulte The Salvation Army; en el norte de Virginia, use NVFS y Collect for Kids; en el suroeste, United Way SWVA. Para ahorrar, use el feriado de impuestos de agosto publicado en Virginia Tax. Para reducir gastos del hogar, aplique a SNAP y WIC. Si tiene un aviso de corte de servicios, hable hoy con su compañía (Dominion o Appalachian Power) y pida ayuda de VDSS Energy Assistance. (tax.virginia.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS)
- Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)
- Virginia Department of Taxation
- Cover Virginia (Medicaid/FAMIS)
- Project HOPE‑Virginia
- United Way of Southwest Virginia and school division announcements linked above
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 in Virginia and is not legal advice. Program rules, dates, and funding change quickly. Always confirm current availability and requirements with your school, division, or the administering agency via the links to VDSS, VDOE, and 211 Virginia before you travel or spend money. If you find a broken link or out‑of‑date detail, email us and we will update this page after verification.
🏛️More Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
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- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
