Prague district now collecting school supplies and backpacks for families in need

In the run-up to the new school year, retailers are estimating that supplies for children entering school could run families thousands of crowns per student. The good news is that school supplies won't be significantly more expensive than last year.

Sellers and large supermarket operators contacted by Czech Television including Globus, Kaufland, and McPen, agreed that a complete set of school supplies, from backpacks to art supplies, should not exceed CZK 5,000.

But sellers say that in recent years, parents often want to pay extra for more expensive or branded products. "On the level of importance, the quality of the tools is the most important for backpacks, bags and writing pens, they tend to be branded," a spokesperson for Globus told Czech Television.

For some families, however, school supplies represent a significant impact on the budget, which is why some cities are helping families cut costs by organizing supply drives.

Last year the most dramatic increase in prices was seen in school backpacks. Called "aktovka" in Czech, these are rolltop structured rucksacks that can accommodate a number of books and supplies and are typically purchased from first grade. Their prices range from CZK 1,600 to CZK 2,500 and upwards of CZK 5,000 for sets that include pencil cases and snack boxes.

As the new school year approaches, Prague 7 is once again organizing a collection of new and gently used school and art supplies. From Aug. 1 through Sept. 6, residents can drop off items like backpacks, pencil cases, notebooks, art supplies and more at the town hall office (U Průhonu 38) during business hours. Prague 6 usually organizes a similar drive. The Single Mothers Club launched their collection in July.

Prague 7 says all school equipment in good, reusable condition is welcome, including: backpacks, pencil cases, notebooks, sketchbooks, crayons, markers, paints, compasses, and rulers.