Metro Detroit families scramble to prepare for Back-to-School amid rising costs

SOUTHGATE, Mich. – Thousands of students across Metro Detroit are preparing to head back to school next week. As the first day approaches, many families are in a last-minute scramble to get their children ready.

Parents like Patricia Hudson are busy making sure their children have the necessary clothes and school supplies. However, for many families, the cost of these basic back-to-school items has been steadily rising, making preparation a challenge.

“Things have gone up for sure. It’s like any little thing will help,” said Val Woelkers, as she stood in a backpack give-away line outside the Southgate Police Department on Wednesday.

Recognizing these challenges, organizations such as Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries have stepped in to assist. Dr. Chad Audi from the ministry shared that they have been seeing an increased demand for help from families across the community.

“Unfortunately, right now, we have been getting a lot of calls and we see that the needs have been increasing,” said Dr. Audi. He emphasized that the families seeking help are working families who are still living in their homes but are at risk of homelessness.

To address this, Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries partnered with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Southgate Police, and Riverview Police for a giveaway event on Wednesday. The event provided backpacks, school supplies, and other essentials to hundreds of local families, easing the financial burden as children prepare to start the new school year.

“Higher prices on glue, on crayons, on folders, everything,” explained one mom named Kelly. She brought her son and grandchildren to the backpack give-away event.

The organizers stressed the importance of ensuring children have what they need to start the year right. They also encourage community members to volunteer or donate to help continue providing resources and services.

For more information on how to help or get assistance, visit the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries website at https://drmm.org.