Since 2020, the cost of school supplies has surged 24%, while children’s winter outerwear prices have jumped nearly as much in just the past year. What were once simple back-to-school purchases—notebooks, pencils, a warm winter coat—now force families to make impossible choices. Parents are paying 25% more but getting less. Teachers are spending over $800 of their own money to fill the gaps. And children are showing up to school without the tools they need to succeed or the protection they need to stay safe in winter weather.

Life Quilt exists because no child should go without a notebook, a pencil, or a warm coat. These aren’t luxuries—they’re the foundation of dignity, learning, and safety. When families can’t afford the basics, we step in.

Stitching Together The Resources

Average family back-to-school spending has climbed from $789 to $875, even as real purchasing power declines. Parents are shopping earlier, choosing cheaper alternatives, and still coming up short. Teachers are spending over $800 of their own money to fill gaps.

But statistics don’t capture what this really means: children going without. Students unprepared to learn. Kids inadequately protected from winter cold.

Life Quilt exists to be the community’s answer. We provide school supplies to students who need them and winter clothing to children who would otherwise go without. Because in a society where the basics have become unaffordable, collective action isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Give the Gift of Educational Success

Helping young people go to and succeed in school is Life Quilt’s number one priority.

Your donation will go directly toward sending the next generation of leaders to school by providing them the support and tools they need to succeed in their studies.

Please donate to our programs today because learning can’t wait.