As the back-to-school season approaches, many of us are busy preparing for the new academic year, shopping for supplies and gearing up for the return to routines. But for some families, this time of year brings added stress and uncertainty as they struggle to meet their children’s basic needs. While we’re picking out the perfect backpacks and stocking up on notebooks, countless children face the new school year without these crucial supplies. This disparity can impact their confidence and academic success. Imagine if back-to-school shopping wasn’t just about finding the best deals but about coming together as a community to ensure every child starts the school year with the essentials they need.
Connecting technology changes the game
CarePortal connects families in need with generous individuals and organizations willing to help. This platform is a powerful tool for addressing urgent needs in real time, creating a community-driven support system that can set children up for success. Here’s how you can play a pivotal role this back-to-school season:
1. Meet a need
This is your chance to make an immediate impact. By visiting our meet needs page and you can find specific school related needs requested by families in your area. From school supplies to clothing, you can make sure that a child has what they need to start the school year strong. To get started, you can look at the current needs for back to school requests. Then, you can select a request that resonates with you and fulfill it. Your support can transform a child’s school experience and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.
2. Refer a school or district
If you’re connected to a school or district that could benefit from additional resources, referring them to CarePortal is a powerful way to extend our reach. Schools and districts can use CarePortal to make requests and mobilize community support for their students. In order to refer to CarePortal, simply share our mission and benefits with school officials and encourage them to sign up and request support through our platform. School professionals have such close access to kids giving them a unique layer of visibility into potential vulnerability. By making this connection between CarePortal and school professionals, you help create a broader network of care and ensure that more students get the help they need. The more schools who are engaged requesting support from the community, the stronger we can make families in our neighborhoods.
3. Engage your church, club, or business
Chances are, you’re part of a community that shares your values. This is an incredible way for you to play a connecting role in becoming key players who support local families. Whether it’s through a church, a club or a business, your group can help meet larger-scale needs and foster a spirit of generosity this school year. Getting involved is simple. Encourage your church, club or business to explore opportunities on how you can support local families. Your community’s involvement in meeting immediate needs can lead to significant, positive changes in the lives of children and families.
Why it matters
Connection changes everything. By coming together to address these needs, we can strengthen students and their families this school year. Every action, whether it’s fulfilling a specific request, referring a school or engaging with your organization, contributes to strengthening the family unit before it breaks. So let’s transform the way we approach back-to-school shopping. Let’s make it about more than just supplies—let’s make it about ensuring every child has the resources they need to thrive. Connect with CarePortal today and help us create a positive school year for every child.
