Back-to-school supplies

Being prepared for the new school year sets up students for success. However, it can be difficult to get everything you need for the classroom when you can’t afford it. Thankfully there are non-profit organizations in Stark County that offer affordable options, help families pay for items or offer free school supplies.

For example, have you ever considered shopping at stores like Goodwill during back-to-school time? Goodwill carries many gently used items like bookbags, but also stocks brand new items like pencils and glue as school approaches. To find the store nearest you, see the list below or visit GoodwillGoodSkills.org.

Affordable or free school supplies

ASPIRE Today: Community Outreach

Each year, Aspire hosts a back-to-school giveaway and event in Canton, Ohio.
320 3rd Street Northwest
Canton, OH 44702

Goodwill Industries

Local Goodwill organizations are innovative and sustainable social enterprises that create job training programs, employment placement and other community-based programs by selling donated clothing and household items. The Ken Weber Community Campus has walk-in services available Tuesdays and Thursdays for community resource connections. For further information on what Goodwill has to offer, please call our main campus or visit our website. Thrift Store Locations
  • Alliance 12501 W State St, Alliance, OH 44601 330-821-4880
  • Massillon 2745 Indian River Rd, Massillon, OH 44646 330-833-9825
  • Whipple Ave NW 4379 Whipple Ave NW, Canton, OH 44718 234-360-8564
  • Tuscarawas St W 5139 Tuscarawas St W, Canton, OH 44708 330-479-8222
  • N Main St 1230 N Main St, North Canton, OH 44720 330-494-2464
  • Atlantic Blvd NW 2630 Atlantic Blvd NW, Canton, OH 44705 330-456-8020
Main Campus: (330) 454-9461
Main Campus: (330) 454-9461

Helping Hands Network

Clothes and shoes for Sandy Valley Local School District students.  
126 South Main St.
Waynesburg, OH 44688
Phone: (330) 866-2005
Hide HoursShow Hours
Tue.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Wed.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Thu.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Perry Helping Perry

A community-based organization that exists to provide needed support for Perry residents Food pantry, clothing, school supplies and more
  • Food Pantry Non-perishable food and toiletries 3rd Saturday of each month 9am – 12pm Trinity United Methodist Church 3757 Lincoln Way E Massillon, OH 44646
  • Clothes Closet Clothing for infants, children, and adults 5038 W Tuscarawas St Canton, OH 44708 Tuesday, Wednesday, & Saturday 10am – 4pm Thursday 10am – 7pm
  • Backpacks Provide backpacks and school supplies for families in need In partnership with Whipple Heights Alliance Church Click here for application
  • Sack Snacks Weekend snacks for school age children Prepared throughout the school year by Perry Helping Perry volunteers. They are distributed to all the schools in the Perry Local School District and discreetly given to qualifying children
  • Bikes Provides donated bikes to children and adults Give us a call at 330-737-1281 or send us an email
  • Christmas Giveaway Help families provide gifts and stocking stuffers for their children In partnership with Perry Christian Church Click here for application
Phone: (330) 737-1281

Project KARE

Project KARE organizes a back-to-school event each year to provide school supplies for foster families and children in need.
221 3rd St NE
Canton, OH 44702
Phone: (330) 452-4661
Fax: (888) 698-6893