Dallas non-profit helping families with school supplies

As kids across North Texas return to school, a non-profit in Dallas is helping families who may not be able to afford school supplies.

The National Retail Federation says the average family will spend $875 on backpacks, supplies, clothes, and electronics for kids returning to school. The organization says that has increased from $697 five years ago.

"That's a huge burden, so we try to provide things that'll take a load off those families," said Feleasha Nelson, director of children's services at Interfaith Family Services.

The non-profit will provide 75 backpacks filled with school supplies, socks, underwear and toiletries to children who need help.

"It takes a load off, not only the student, but off the parent as well who may not have the means to provide those necessities," Nelson said.

Nelson says providing supplies can also help kids focus on school work so they can end a cycle of poverty.

"We also help those families make sure they are getting to school, getting to work, helping families with rent or utility assistance to take the load off making sure their students don't have stress making their way through school," Nelson said.

Interfaith Family Services said its focus is on "wrap-around services" to help families become self-sufficient. The organization says 97% of parents leave with a job and 94% of families leave with permanent housing.

Nelson stated that 89% of graduates of their program remain employed for at least a year, and 81% of kids improve in reading and math. She said the organization has a therapist who works with kids, and the group works with schools and counselors so families know about available tools.

"Just this year alone, we've seen an increase in families who need services," Nelson said. "We may not be able to provide services for all those families. If we don't have the resources here, we do send them to other agencies who can provide those resources."

More information about Interfaith Family Services is available at https://interfaithdallas.org/ .

LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube