Some CNY families to receive money to help with back-to-school shopping

DEWITT, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Some families in Central New York are not only getting an early start on back-to-school shopping, but extra money that could help offset high prices.

On Tuesday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced $350 million in supplemental payments will be given to low and moderate income families across the state through the Empire State Child Credit program. More than one million eligible families will receive a payment of up to $330 per child without having to apply or sign up. The governor says the money will help back with back-to-school shopping.

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“Usually whatever is on the list, we just check off. I just grab, and it’s not really a price matter. It’s more of just what’s on the list and what needs to be done,” said Manar Suleiman, a mother of child going into third grade.

But that list can add up fast.

“You have to kind of pick and choose, and see what items you really need, and see what you can kind of save a little money on too,” said Jennifer Moore, mother of child going into sixth grade.

To help offset high prices, eligible families with children will receive a check in the mail. But is this extra boost enough? Here’s what parents had to say.

“I definitely do. But again, I know the kids all want the Stanley’s. Is that really important at 10, 11-years old? Yes, I don’t believe so. So $330, I think you can do it at $330,” said Moore.

“I’d say for us that would be plenty. We reuse a lot from past years, and other than new sneakers and some new clothes, we don’t really need much,” said Suleiman.

“It depends on the child. It depends on what grade. For her, it would be good. I believe sixth grade and over that, I don’t think that’s enough,” said Angela Mossow, a mother of daughter going into first grade.

But just how far will your money go? NewsChannel 9 stopped by a few stores and here’s what we found:

Staples:

• On average a backpack can range anywhere from about $20 to $35.
• Five Star notebooks cost about $4 to $10.
• Some colored folders can cost as low as 25 cents.

Walmart:

• On average a backpack can range anywhere from $5 to about $40.
• Five Star notebooks can cost about $3 to $7.
• Some folders can cost as low as 50 cents.

Target:

• On average a backpack can range anywhere from $15 to $30.
• A composition notebook can cost as low as 50 cents.
• A college ruled notebook can cost about $3.
• A box of crayons can cost about $4.
• Colored pencils can cost a little more than $6.

The tax department will begin mailing checks for the tax credit in the first week of August and continue for several weeks.

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