Class is now in session for many school districts across Tennessee. While back-to-school shopping, many parents and guardians noticed an increase in school-related expenses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of school supplies has increased by 9.4%, compared to last year, causing parents and guardians to feel the effects of rising prices.
While new school supplies can contribute to a fun and successful school year for students, their cost can also tremendously impact a family’s budget. For families with one or more students in K-12 and/or college, clothing, supplies and other school-related items can be financially taxing.
In a recent survey conducted by the National Retail Federation, the cost of back-to-school shopping for a student in K-12 was estimated at $858.07 per person, whereas the cost for a student in college was estimated at $1,325.85 per person. In 2019, before the pandemic, those costs were estimated at $696.70 and $976.78, respectively—a significant increase of more than 20 and 30% and a sign of rising costs.
As reported by CNBC, “roughly 20% of back-to-school shoppers said buying supplies for the new year is straining their budget,” with “39% of parents [who] said they can’t afford back-to-school shopping.” Moreover, 44% said they were willing to take on financial debt this year to cover the cost of school supplies, which is a 10% increase from 2024.
Considering the cost of school expenses, coupled with other burdens like cost of living, childcare, inflation, tariff threats and personal finances, shoppers are looking for alternative ways to save money this back-to-school season. According to Bankrate, 49% of shoppers are using money-saving strategies like buying cheaper brands, purchasing budget-friendly or fewer supplies, and looking for deals or community support programs to make ends meet.
In Tennessee, credit unions are helping to offset the cost of back-to-school expenses for parents and guardians by hosting school supply drives and backpack giveaways. Credit unions are also supporting teachers by helping with leadership retreats.
Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union
Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union attended the Hawkins County Teachers Event at Volunteer High School.
Team Appy had an amazing time connecting with our local educators at the Hawkins County Teachers event! We loved capturing fun instant-photo moments, handing out cool sunglasses and bright highlighters, and most importantly – showing our appreciation for everything our teachers do.
“Supporting our teachers at the Hawkins County Schools General Meeting is one of our favorite traditions at ACFCU” said Andy Mullins, CEO at ACFCU. “It’s a special opportunity to connect with the educators who make such a difference in our communities. The Team Appy photo booth adds a personal and fun touch to the day — giving teachers a moment to smile, relax and walk away with a keepsake to start the year on a positive note.”
Healthcare Services Credit Union
Healthcare Services Credit Union in Chattanooga packed 120 backpacks with school supplies.
“For the backpack giveaway, we packed 120 backpacks with school supplies including crayons, pencils, colored pencils, erasers, children scissors, folders, loose leaf paper and notebooks,” said Mikayla Madaris, marketing coordinator at Healthcare Services Credit Union.
Jack Daniel Employees’ Credit Union
Jack Daniel Employees’ Credit Union works with Lynchburg Elementary School to host Raiders Credit Union for students.
“The Raiders Credit Union aims to educate children about financial success and tie us together as they grow so hopefully, we can equip them with the skills to become responsible stewards of their money as they continue their membership with us,” said Brittany Burton, loan coordinator at Jack Daniel Employees’ Credit Union.
The credit union located in Lynchburg has a little under 7,000 people. The credit union also places a Back-to-School Apple Tree in the branch to bless in-need students with back-to-school clothes and gear.
“In so many aspects of life in a small town, people come together just to lift one another up,” said Pam Case, manager/CEO at Jack Daniel Employees’ Credit Union. “This is evident whether it is a tragedy impacting a family or providing a hand-up, such as the Back-to-School Apple Tree. Helping one another is what we do well as a community, and we are a part of this wonderful community. We aren’t separated from it, it’s our people and we want them to succeed. We can provide a means for the community to assist without personal recognition, which is how our members would prefer to give. That’s the drive behind our willingness to help.”
Kingsport Press Credit Union
Kingsport Press Credit Union hosted a raffle for back-to-school gift cards.
“Back-to-school shopping can be a major expense for many families,” said Walter Salyers, president/CEO at Kinsport Press Credit Union. “Between clothing, school supplies, backpacks and more, the costs add up quickly. A $100 gift card can make a real difference, helping families afford what their kids need to start the school year feeling confident and prepared.”
The credit union understands the impact of helping the community.
“Even small acts of giving can create a ripple effect,” said Salyers. “By showing that we care about families during this financially stressful time of year, we also encourage others to consider how they can support those around them. Initiatives like this can spark meaningful conversations about how we, as a community, can come together to support all students.”
Northeast Community Credit Union
Northeast Community Credit Union sponsored both of Carter County’s backpack programs to help students prepare for the new school year.
NCCU donated $1,000 in cash and giveaways to both of Carter County’s Back to School Bashes. Each year, the Back to School Bashes give away thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies to students in the Carter County and Elizabethton City school systems.
Southern Security Credit Union
Southern Security Credit Union supported Youth Villages’ 2025 Backpack Heroes Program.
The Backpack Heroes Program is an annual event that serves children who have experienced trauma or have a history of emotional or behavioral issues, so they can start the school year equipped to succeed. Youth Villages is a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health, bringing help and hope to tens of thousands of children, families and young people across the U.S. annually.
“We are proud to partner with Youth Villages for the Backpack Heroes Program to help provide children with backpacks filled with school supplies so that they may each be positioned to have a successful school year,” said Dawn Graeter, CEO of Southern Security. “We understand the financial strain families may be experiencing, and we are hopeful the donated school supplies and backpacks will remove some of the burden for families as children start back to school.”
We hope students, teachers and families have a wonderful 2025-2026 school year!
