Where to score free school supplies near Miami
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios
Miami-Dade and Broward County public school students return to class next week, and parents have a few options for last-minute school shopping on a budget.
Why it matters: Nationwide, families are budgeting less this year for school supplies for their elementary-through-high-school students, according to a survey from the National Retail Federation.
- These families plan to spend an average of $858 on clothing, shoes and school supplies — down from $874 in 2024, per the NRF.
Here are a few spots to find low-cost or free school supplies:
👟 Style Saves: The annual back-to-school event at the Miami Beach Convention Center features a department store-style shopping format offering free school supplies, uniforms, sneakers and accessories this weekend.
- RSVP is required. Saturday is sold out, but Sunday afternoon slots remained open as of publication.
🎒 Miami Kids Magazine Back-to School Bash and After School Fair: Students can receive free backpacks while supplies last, free school supplies, face painting, giveaways and entertainment.
- Free eye exams and glasses are available for your child when prescribed. (Call 305-856-9830 to make an appointment.)
- Saturday 11am at Sunset Place, 5701 Sunset Dr., South Miami, FL, 33143.
- Register here
✏️ Miami Temple Adventist Church hosts its Back to School Fair on Sunday from 11am-2pm.
- Apart from free school supplies, there will be bounce houses, health services, food and more.
- 9175 SW 44th St., Miami, FL 33165
- Register here
🚓 National Night Out: The Broward Sheriff's Office is hosting a back-to-school edition of "National Night Out Against Crime" on Friday, with police demonstrations, school supply giveaways while supplies last, kids' activities and food trucks.
- Register here.