Press Release: Alarming Escalation in School Supply Costs Demands Urgent Attention

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 21, 2023

CONTACT:

Elie Ngoy

elijah@thegentsfoundation.org

(240) 584-0383

Alarming Escalation in School Supply Costs Demands Urgent Attention

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The increasing school supply costs underscore the importance of creating sustainable solutions to alleviate financial pressure on families, ultimately fostering an environment where every child can thrive academically without being hindered by economic challenges.

“The issue of school supply affordability is complicated, and it affects low-income local areas more than any other geographical places,” said William Pierre-Louis, Jr., founder and chief executive officer of The Gents’ Foundation. “It is part of a broader problem of school budgets for smaller towns and district schools.”

For example, local high schools in Washington, D.C.—including Anacostia High School and Ballou High School, witnessed significant declines in student populations in 2019, signaling deeper issues within the education system.

In 2023, the financial strain on families has intensified. According to Essence, there has been a startling 25% increase in school supply costs compared to 2022, with families now expected to spend an average of $230 per child for school supplies and $137 for clothing, including uniforms.

“We need government-driven initiatives to alleviate the burden on parents and ensure every child has the necessary tools for learning—particularly those living in underserved communities,” said Pierre-Louis, Jr.

The Gents’ Foundation, committed to addressing this issue head-on, has already taken significant action. Earlier in September this year, the foundation proudly provided school supplies to 40 children at the nonprofit organization Children’s Inn in Bethesda, Maryland, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to empower communities and secure educational equity.

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