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Winnipeg families are heading to bargain stores in growing numbers this back-to-school season, searching for affordable supplies as household costs continue to rise across Canada.
According to a 2026 Retail Council of Canada report, back-to-school shopping generates more than $4.5 billion annually nationwide. Individual households can expect to spend between $600 and $750 per child on school-related purchases. With inflation climbing to three per cent in July, many parents say the financial pressure is unavoidable.
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Parents Feel the Squeeze at the Register
Graham Voth, a parent shopping at Value Village in Winnipeg, expressed the frustration many families share. “I’m so tired of hearing about the rising costs, I mean, it sucks, but we all have to deal with it,” he said.
Discount and second-hand retailers have become a popular destination for budget-conscious families trying to stretch their dollars further. The combination of persistent inflation and the high per-child cost of school supplies has pushed more shoppers toward value-focused options this year.
Community Organization Steps Up for Northern Kids
The rising costs are hitting families in northern communities especially hard. Tru-North Supply, an organization that produces affordable back-to-school backpack kits for children in those areas, has seen a notable increase in demand this season.
Danica Lazatin, sales and marketing co-ordinator at Tru-North Supply, confirmed the organization has filled 400 backpacks so far this season. The growing interest reflects how widespread the financial strain has become for families preparing children for the new school year.
Classes Set to Begin September 9
With the first day of classes scheduled for September 9, Winnipeg families are working quickly to complete their back-to-school shopping. The combination of a tight deadline and elevated costs has made this year’s preparation season particularly challenging for many households.
Retailers and community organizations alike are responding to the increased demand, as parents across the region look for every available way to manage back-to-school expenses without compromising on what their children need to start the academic year.
