More than 1,100 students across the Houston area are getting free backpacks and school supplies this summer, thanks to local dealership employees stepping up to support families ahead of the new school year.

Families will pay more for some key back-to-school essentials, such as backpacks, ahead of the new school year.

Our teachers often go above and beyond to make sure their students want for nothing in the classroom...even when it means reaching into their own pockets.

Are you ready for your little one to head back to school? If so, check out one of these back-to-school events offering supplies and MORE!

Council Member Julian Ramirez shared details Tuesday morning on the upcoming annual Back 2 School Fest, where every year the city partners with Shell to give away backpacks and much more ahead of the starting school year.

Last year, BEAR’s School Supply Drive provided backpacks full of supplies to more than 11,000 children around Houston. Find out how you can do your part to help this year.

BEAR’s Back to School program will help children currently in Child Protective Services get the resources they need for school in the fall.

Nothing feels familiar about back to school this year. This story can help you decide which school supplies to buy now even if youre not sure when your child will need them all. Just like the last stimulus, taxpayers will receive $1200, plus $500 for each dependent they claim on their taxes. This time, it shouldnt matter how old or young your dependents are, you will receive an additional $500 for each of them. Make sure youre familiar with it so you can recognize it if someone tries to trick you or a loved one.

Supplies you need for virtual learningSome schools are distributing virtual school supply lists and separate lists for when students go back to the classroom. Sales of traditional school supplies are down 12%. Will school supplies still be available when you need them? “We are not using community supplies anymore.”Don’t forget Texas’ Tax-Free weekendWith everything going on, you may have forgotten about Texas’ tax-free weekend. That is when school supplies and clothes and most items under $100 sold in stores and online are tax-free.