I'm a teacher with no supplies. Help!

In My Humble Opinion
1

I’m teaching a program for refugee kids this summer. While it is very rewarding, I simply don’t have the supplies needed to work with the kids every day. Right now I have a little construction paper, but I’m almost out. Markers, crayons, computer paper that I can print on, and some scraps of fabric. I also have a ton of cardboard. I can borrow scissors from another teacher and I have about half a bottle of glue left.

What I need is two things.

  1. What projects can I do with the little supplies I have?

and

  1. How do I get new supplies for no money?

I’ve already tried calling Michaels for donations but they only donate to big programs. I keep getting disconnected at Walmart, and it takes months to get anything from Joann Fabrics. Where else can I look? I need these supplies, and so do the other teachers. Help is greatly appreciated.

2

Where are you? That might help.

Could you sign up for Donors Choose?

Are there office-type businesses around that might donate? So much paper gets dumped into recycle bins that’s perfectly fine – it’s just printed on one side. They may also have other supplies they’d be willing to kick in.

Can you join Freecycle in your area and put out a call for help?

Can you get paper sacks from a grocery store? Butcher paper?

3

What’s your location? If you’re in the Bay Area, check out RAFT. Even if you’re not, their Idea Sheets are online and feature easily accessible materials, like office supplies, takeout food containers, etc.

What are you teaching? What is the aim of your program/projects? Just crafts to fill time? I can point you to more ideas/resources if you specify.