School Essentials Assistance

The cost of starting a school year — books, stationery, uniforms, shoes, a bag — lands all at once and falls hardest on the households least able to absorb it. When it cannot be met, children start late, share materials, or stay home.

The Foundation provides assistance for educational costs and essential items under Object (e) of its Constitution. Applications are made online or with help by phone, assessed against a published rubric, and decided by someone other than the assessor. Where possible, the Foundation pays a supplier or school directly so the family does not have to handle the money.

We tell you what happens next and when. A decision, either way, comes with a reason, and a decline names an alternative and a date you can apply again.