The inevitable is quickly approaching – school! While those seeking peace and quiet can’t wait to get their children out the door, others long for a few more months of enjoying summer weather with their loved ones. As my brother prepares to depart for his junior year at Penn State University, I can’t help but think back to the anticipation of another year of classes and new teachers.
Whether your child is attending pre-K, middle school, or college, they will surely need to stock up on “Back to School” gear and supplies. With new trends and styles each year, children often feel the need to replace half their wardrobe which can be quite costly. Below are a few recommendations of ways to save a few bucks when back to school shopping this year.
Impact Thrift Stores (Various Locations) – Save money and support good causes at the same time by shopping at Impact Thrift Stores. These local stores are part of a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to financially support local charities through the net proceeds generated by the thrift store operations. Impact Thrift is conveniently located for most MontCo residents as they have stores in Hatboro, Montgomeryville, and Norristown.
The stores are also holding the “Make an Impact…Fill a Backpack!” Back to School Drive; which kicks off Monday, Aug 22nd and runs through Saturday, September 3rd at all three locations. For the drive, Impact Thrift is asking customers to drop off a school supply item to be donated to Elementary school students in need, within the neighboring school districts: Norristown, Hatboro-Horsham and North Penn. Each customer who donates a brand new school supply item will have their name entered into a raffle for a chance to win a $25 Gift Certificate to Impact Thrift Stores.
Lush Consignment Boutique (Phoenixville) – Voted by MyFoxPhilly Hotlist as “best vintage and resale store” in 2009, Lush Consignment Boutique offers “new and gently used clothing and accessories at everyday bargain prices.” As a consignment shop, not only are clothes more affordable than a traditional retail store, but you can actually make money by selling used clothing through their store. Please note, this is a women’s only clothing store, probably not the best place to take your son for back to school clothes. 😉
Photo Courtesy of Philadelphia Premium Outlets
Philadelphia Premium Outlets (Limerick): Why shop at the mall when there is a major outlet center just minutes away? Philadelphia Premium Outlets, located in Limerick, is comprised of an impressive 150 outlet stores. With brands such as Banana Republic, Gap, Nike, and Ralph Lauren, you should have no problem finding that perfect outfit for your child.
Office Max (Various Locations) – When it comes time to shopping for school supplies, your best bet is a large office chain store. Unfortunately for smaller businesses, their prices are just too low to compete with. There are Office Max stores located in Willow Grove and Lansdale. Both offer great discounts on school supplies, many of which can be seen on the Office Max website.
Lenscrafters (Various Locations) – One of the most important back to school items many parents forget about are prescription glasses for their children. Some of us that don’t wear glasses have eyesight that “gets us by,” but when it comes to reading off of blackboards our vision might not cut it. Lenscrafters is currently holding its semi-annual sale which includes half off of kids’ eyeglasses. Montgomery County locations include Willow Grove, North Wales, Plymouth Meeting, and King of Prussia.
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