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Programs & Services

School Supply Assistance

Torso of child with backpack over their shoulder, reaching for a new box of colored pencils from a table with supplies while holding an ice cream cone.

Welcome to the School Supplies Assistance Program!

We look forward to getting your students off to an amazing start to their school year.

Registration Information

Hastings Family Service helps families living in or attending school in ISD 200 with free school supplies.

Registration opens: Monday, Aug 3, 2026 by calling HFS at 651-437-7134

Distribution by appointment: Monday, Aug 17 thru Friday, Aug 21, 2026

Program Details

Parents/Guardians must call beginning August 3, 2026, to register for assistance. At registration, if you are unable to attend the pickup appointment you may specify a proxy (such as a grandparent) who will be accompanying your child to the appointment. 

Parents/guardians must provide the following documents before a student receives supplies:

If you live within the boundaries of ISD 200:

  • Parent/Guardian picture ID
  • Proof of residence in ISD 200 such as a piece of mail postmarked within the last two weeks or current utility bill or lease signed within the month of August. If you do not have mail, HFS can send you mail in advance to bring to your appointment. 
  • Proof of school enrollment for each child receiving supplies such as a schedule from Infinite Campus/the school's system, current enrollment year's bus card/schedule, student lunch account, current year report card, or authorization for HFS to call the school directly to confirm enrollment. 

If your child attends school within the boundaries of ISD 200 but you live outside of the boundaries:

  • Parent/Guardian picture ID
  • Proof of school enrollment for each child receiving supplies such as a schedule from Infinite Campus/the school's system, current enrollment year's bus card/schedule, student lunch account, current year report card, or authorization for HFS to call the school directly to confirm enrollment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can an extended family member or friend register a student for school supplies? No. The registration appointment must be made by the student's parent/legal guardian.
  • Can someone else accompany my student to the distribution appointment? Yes, provided you verbally give permission and specify a proxy to accompany your child in advance of your appointment.
  • My child is attending online school can we register for the program? Yes, as long as you reside in or are attending school in ISD 200.
  • My child is being homeschooled can we register for the program? Yes, you must have verification from the State of MN of homeschooling and must have each child's name on the form.
  • How long is the distribution appointment? About 15 minutes
  • Can I bring my children to the distribution appointment? YES! We enjoy seeing students selecting their own backpacks and supplies to get them excited for the year ahead. You can also choose to pick up supplies without your student -- whatever your preference.

Free & Low-Cost Vaccination Clinic for Eligible Children

Monday, Aug 17 | 11:30AM-3:30PM | Hastings Family Service 

Dakota County Public Health is hosting a vaccination clinic for eligible children. Low-cost vaccines are available for children who do not have health insurance, or have health insurance that does not cover vaccines. Free vaccines are available for children who are American Indian or Alaskan Native, or are on Medical Assistance, MNCare, or PMAP. Children must come with an adult and bring their insurance card. Cost of each vaccine is $21. Cash, check, and credit card accepted. No one will be turned away if unable to pay. Learn More