3,600+ Backpacks Needed For Kids in Southeast Minnesota—Here’s How You Can Help

I just got the "Welcome Back To School" e-mail from Rochester Public Schools and immediately realized that I've done zero shopping to get ready.  To tell you the truth, I wasn't even sure what day school was starting.

The cramped aisles at Target and Walmart are something I can deal with.  What I'm dreading the most is the bill for all of the school supplies.

Right here in Southeast Minnesota, there are over 3,600 students whose families are concerned about the cost as well.  According to Fast Company, about 54% of parents have stated they are going to sacrifice groceries and utilities just so they can try to afford what their kids need for school.

There's a better way...and a much more economical way too to help out these kids in our community!

How Much Are Families Spending This Year On Back-To-School Expenses in Minnesota?

According to the National Retail Federation, the average amount that a household will probably spend on back-to-school items this year is approximately $858.07.  That high number includes all school items, as well as clothing, shoes, and other essentials.

Break it down into just school supplies, and that amount is coming to an average of $143.77.

Here's how you can help ensure kids have the school supplies they need in Southeast Minnesota

Running Start for School has been managed by United Way of Southeast Minnesota since 1998.  In the initial year, supplies were provided to 500 kids in the area.

Fast forward to 2024, about 3,500 students were supplied with backpacks and school supplies.

2025 is another huge year of numbers - it is anticipated that over 3,600 students in our area are in need of free supplies this year.

📓✏️Our students have a #RunningStart for School thanks to our wonderful volunteers and donors! This year, we're supporting 3,600+ students with backpacks and school supplies.
- United Way of Southeast Minnesota

Today, it is extremely easy to help provide school supplies for kids in our area.  In fact, with a few clicks and a few bucks spent, you are helping a child start the school year off with a running start.

STEP ONE:  Check out the Roonga website, you will see the following 4 items that are still needed:

• Pre-K Backpack and School Supply Kit - a pack that will supply one student for the year is $7.99. (170 are currently needed)
• Elementary Backpack and School Supply Kit - a pack that will supply one student for the year is $16.02 (824 are still needed)
• Middle School Backpack and Supplies - a pack that will supply one student for the year is $14.28 (461 are still needed)
• High School Backpack and Supplies  - a pack that will supply one student for the year is $19.33 (608 still needed)

You simply add this to your cart, pay for it online, and you just helped a child in our area have what they need for their 2025-2026 school year!

STEP TWO:  Volunteers pack and organize every backpack for all 3,600+ students who are in need in our area.

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STEP THREE:  Volunteers help pack up the backpacks and deliver the boxes to the partnering schools and organizations.

See...you've got the easiest job!  Just go to the Roonga website, click on the age group that you'd like to buy a backpack and supplies for, click and pay.  It's that easy!

How Do I Get My Family Signed Up for Free School Supplies?

If your family could use help with school supplies, please reach out to your child's school directly.  They are the best contact for this request.

Do you have an event coming up in Southeast Minnesota?

Every year, we help the community in a variety of ways from supporting local fundraisers, to running daily public service messages, to creating digital community campaigns and hosting events attended by thousands. Learn more about how Townsquare Media Cares here.

If you have an event coming up or work for a nonprofit in Southeast Minnesota, I'd love to learn more! Send me a note at jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or on my Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio.