Families Still Worried About Back-to-School Costs, Survey Finds

Higher prices and concerns about the economy will affect how families will shop for back-to-school clothing and supplies again this year, according to a national survey.

The annual Deloitte Back to School Survey found that 68% of families plan to spend either the same amount as last year or less as they prepare for the upcoming school year. Of that group, 75% say that higher prices are the reason for their conservative spending.

To help, Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina is offering two opportunities to save this back-to-school season: the annual Back-to-School Blues sale on blue jeans, and a new discount on books for educators.

“Families are having to prioritize spending on required school supplies, and as a result they are putting clothing purchases on the back burner,” said Jaymie Eichorn, vice president of marketing and communications for Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina. “It doesn’t help that the cost of new clothing continues to go up.”

One solution to the spending dilemma is looking to secondhand sources of clothing and supplies, Eichorn said. Goodwill’s popular Back-to-School Blues sale on blue jeans returns from Aug. 4-13. All regularly priced blue jeans (adults and children) will be buy one, get one free at Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina retail and outlet stores, while supplies last.

For the first time, Goodwill is also offering educators a 50% discount on books from Sunday, July 30 through August. The offer is valid only at Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina retail stores, not including outlets or online sales. Shoppers will need to provide an educator ID to receive the discount.

“Educators often shop for books at Goodwill because they can find a wide selection at lower prices,” Eichorn said. The educator discount is a way for us to show our appreciation and help those educators stock up their classrooms for the school year. Since July 30 is National Paperback Book Day, it’s a perfect time to kick off our first-ever educator discount.”

Goodwill stores are stocked with jeans and books and will replenish supplies throughout the sale, Eichorn said. Families also can shop at Goodwill for tech and computer accessories, along with college residence hall supplies like linens, storage containers, lamps and décor.