Summer means so many things in Florida, from getting out and enjoying all the sights and attractions – even if you are a native – to going to the beach, picnicking, taking off in the boat or enjoying riding different types of watercraft, and more. But unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and that means back to school in August for most students. This also means back-to-school shopping, a venture that can really add up when you calculate all that is usually purchased, from new clothes to new shoes, P.E. outfits, sports uniforms, and all the normal required items such as pens, pencils, calculators, compasses, and so much more. Some parents must budget all summer – or even all year – just to pay for the back-to-school melee. And for many, the money just is not there for the extensive list of items to be purchased.

No matter what school district you live in, you have probably noticed that school supplies are always in high demand – and sometimes the deficits are so extreme that teachers are even using their own money to purchase essential items and then some so that children do not go without during class. You might be amazed to learn that sometimes children are be forced to go without something as simple as a pencil—or they could be forced to borrow from other classmates who may not have a plentiful supply of the necessary tools either.

In Manatee County, homelessness is a real problem. Data shows that while around 85,000 people are considered homeless in Florida, approximately 3,500 of them are in Manatee County, and far too many of them are children (recent numbers suggest 800 children are without homes). These kids may often just be lucky enough to find temporary housing in motels, tent housing, or they may be found sleeping in cars or on the streets out of desperation. Many of them are in shelters or are hoping to get into foster care. They may have a hard time learning not only because they are lacking basic school supplies that their parents may have been expected to provide, but also because they are very hungry—and it’s hard to do mathematical equations when your stomach is grumbling!

County-wide programs are in place to help feed and assist children who are homeless in Bradenton. Recently, high-school students who realize the magnitude of the problem have also been involved in projects like building tiny homes for the homeless population in Bradenton. If you are interested in offering assistance, contact your local public-school system, or the Manatee County school system at (941) 708-8770, and find out more about programs on going at the beginning of this year to help those in need. You can also find out more about the dates your child is going back to school here.

If you or a loved one have been injured due to the negligence of others, contact the attorneys at Heintz Law. We’ve helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses after accidents. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz Law for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.