(RIVIERA BEACH, Florida)– Some private schools in Palm Beach have started a new year today and public school starts tomorrow. 

As with any new school year, students are given a supply list of tools required to be successful, but rising prices and inflation are making it difficult for parents to purchase everything they need.

Teresa Dabrowski, the chief engagement officer for the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, said, “Now with COVID and the inflation of pricing, the need is so much greater,”

To help students who may not have the ability to purchase their supplies, teachers are paying out of pocket to make sure their kids are fully equipped for the year.

According to adoptaclassroom.org, teachers spent an average of over $750 on their students and 30% of teachers spent $1,000 or more on school supplies in 2021.

Some companies and organizations are doing their best to help those students in need.

Red Apple Supplies, in conjunction with The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, distributed over $1,400,000 in free school supplies to over 52,131 students in Palm Beach County and served 76 Title I Schools with 83% or higher Free and Reduced Lunch Rate.

The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County is always looking for help and those who would like to contribute can visit their website.