Nearly 100 Calumet City kids just got a major head start for the new school year—free backpacks, supplies, and even new shoes, thanks to a community giveaway. With local families facing higher costs (about $740 per child, way above the national average), this support couldn’t have come at a better time. Parents juggling multiple jobs and tighter budgets say the relief is real, especially with recent cuts to assistance programs. It’s a powerful reminder of how much neighbors can do for each other. Have you noticed school costs rising? How is your family handling back-to-school season this year? #Safety #CalumetCity #BackToSchool