The cost to send kids back to school just keeps climbing. This year the average is around $570 per student, according to Deloitte. For families with multiple children, that can be overwhelming.

I know what that’s like firsthand. I grew up with a single mom, and every year was a struggle. There were times I started school without the supplies or clothes I needed, and I’ll never forget how that felt. I remember going to events like the ones listed below, and they were a big help!

But, one year I remember showing up to school with a folder and loose paper instead of the spiral notebook that was on the supply list. It felt like such a small thing, but at that age, it mattered. My teacher and peers noticed and the last thing I wanted to do was stand out, especially because I didn’t have the right supplies. Still, even in those moments of not having enough, God was — and still is — enough. He was with me — providing, comforting, and reminding me I wasn’t alone. By His grace alone, I became the first person in my family to graduate from college — the University of Houston!

God has blessed me, but I will never forget little 5th grade me who felt like she didn’t belong — trying to blend in with a blue folder instead of a notebook, hoping no one would notice.

That memory stays with me, not as a source of shame, but as a reminder of how far God has brought me. It’s why I care so deeply about making resources like these available to families today. Because no child should feel left out, especially on the first day of school.

If a backpack filled with supplies can remind one kid that they matter — that they’re seen, supported, and loved — then it’s worth it. And if that love can point them to the One who never leaves their side, even better.

Let’s be part of that reminder. Let’s show up for them — just like God has shown up for us.

Below is a list of free back-to-school supply events happening in and around the Houston area. Please share with anyone who could use the support. If you know of another event, please send me an email at rreyna@ksbj.org.

✏️ CE Wilcrest: Back to School Solutions 2.0

Saturday, August 9 | 2 p.m.
Sunday, August 10 | 10 a.m.
📍 6111A Wilcrest Dr, Houston, TX 77072
🧡 Free supplies, backpacks, and more

📦 Baytown Back to School Supply Giveaway

Saturday, August 9
🕗 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
📍 Baytown Community Center, 2407 Market St., Baytown
🎒 400 students will receive supplies

🎉 Back to School Bash @ The ROCK – Broadway Campus

Saturday, August 9
🕘 9 – 11 a.m.
📍 4101 Broadway St, Houston, TX
🖍️ Free school supplies (registration required)
🎯 Games, prizes, food, and more

✏️ The Lighthouse Church presents LIGHTFEST
Friday, August 8 | 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
📍 Main Event Humble, 20945 Spring Creek Crossing
🎒 Free backpacks & school supplies
🎮 Unlimited games, bowling, laser tag, VR, gravity ropes & billiards
🍕 Pizza & drink included
💇‍♂️ Free haircuts from Dream Chasers Barber & Beauty Studio
🎟️ Free event for K–12 students

✏️ Backpack the Block: Back-to-School Carnival
Sunday, August 10 | 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
📍 1524 11th Street, Huntsville, TX 77340
🍧 Free snow cones, face painting & carnival rides
📸 Free photobooth
🍗 Free Chick-fil-A meals
🎒 250 free Adidas backpacks with school supplies (while supplies last)
🎉 Presented by Lee Baron

💈 Back to School Community Fair – Living Word Church

Sunday, August 10
🕚 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
📍 16607 Clay Rd, Houston, TX 77084
💇 Free haircuts, manicures, bounce houses, health fair, and more

If you or someone you know could use a little help this season, take advantage of these events. And if you’re in a position to give, go for it! Reach out to that single mom or family you know could need the help. Let’s make sure every student starts the year ready to thrive. They’ll be better for it, and so will you!

With love,

Your friend,

Reyna Reyna