Source: RgStudio / Getty Back-to-school season is here, and for many parents, it also means opening their wallets a little wider than they’d like for school supplies. Across the country, charities, nonprofits, schools, and community organizations are giving away thousands of free backpacks and school supplies before the first bell rings. RELATED CONTENT: Back To School Homeschool Edition: 12 Essential Tips for New and Returning HomeschoolersHow to get Back-To-School supplies for free: The Salvation Army, Kids In Need Foundation and More. “Donated supplies go directly to local Salvation Army programs, which distribute them to families who need them most — free of charge, and with dignity,” the Salvation Army’s website states. Military and veteran families can also take advantage of Operation Homefront’s Back-to-School Brigade, a nationwide initiative that provides free backpacks loaded with school supplies to eligible children.