The survey found that two-thirds of parents will have to drop extracurricular activities just to afford the basics, such as school shoes.
The preparations are underway for a new school year as parents head out in their thousands to kit out their kids in school uniforms. However, for many, it is a huge financial burden.
According to a survey from the Irish League of Credit Unions parents, a third of parents are going into debt due to increasing back-to-school costs.
The survey found that two-thirds of parents will have to drop extracurricular activities just to afford the basics while 30% will not be able to give money for school trips.
The findings revealed parents of primary school children are spending €50 less than last year but is that really enough? In 2018, parents spent €999 compared to €949 this year to cover the costs of uniforms, extracurricular activities, books, transport, after-school care, school trips, voluntary fees, shoes and gym gear.
However, in a wonderful turn of events, Tesco in Kildare Town donated over 150 pairs school shoes to the local community to distribute to deserving families in recent days.
Teach Dara announced the wonderful news on their Facebook page to spread the news to parents who might be struggling.
A spokesperson announced the news saying, "Tesco have been tremendously kind and donated over 150 pairs of school shoes for the Community."
"We aren't looking to charge at all for these but we really want to make sure families that need them to get them. Maybe you or a friend have a number of kids to kit out for school and a spare pair for when Maria or Mary leaves them in PE or gets wet on the way home."
Teach Dara Community & Family Centre based in Kildare Town to have time slots available over the coming weeks for people to try on and pick what they need. All they ask is you message their Facebook page directly or text 087 9474783 for a slot.
If that wasn't enough, they hope to have school trousers and skirts next week and have advised any parents in need to keep an eye on their social media channels.
The local community have welcomed the news with one saying, "Fantastic gesture I hope the right people get them and don't miss out through pride. It's nothing to be ashamed of everyone needs a helping hand at some stage and when you're on your feet you will return the favour."
Another wrote: "Tesco's do so much for the local community they don't get enough credit."
While a third said: "Amazing well done Tesco what a great idea it will help many I'm sure keep up the good work guys."
It's a great move from such a huge brand and hopefully, others will follow suit in the weeks ahead, it's such a difficult time for parents so every little helps.
Well done Tesco!
