Education is a birthright for every child. But for countless families across India, affording basic school supplies like notebooks, pens, uniforms, or simple bags remains a daily struggle.
The Good news? Help is there. Many worthy NGOs, government programs, and groups of volunteers are all working exhaustively to fill the gap by providing free school materials to the unprivileged students.
That’s why Helplocal – trusted to find NGOs in India – decided to introduce you to 10 trustworthy NGOs where students from low-income classes may contact for free educational materials. We shall also tell you how to get in touch with these organizations. Read on!
Free school supplies from NGOs and Government
Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or concerned citizen, this guide is designed to empower you with the right information to make quality education more accessible and inclusive for all. Here’s the list of NGOs that distribute school supplies and help children with education:
Goonj
Goonj is a widely respected NGO operating across India, known for turning urban surplus into a tool for rural development. One of their impactful initiative, “School to School” provides essential school supplies like uniforms, notebooks, and stationery to the unprivileged students to bridge the educational gap.
How to contact them
Contact local Goonj centers or visit goonj.org. You can also get in touch with them via their social media platforms to know about distribution drives in your area.
Website: Goonj NGO in India
Email: mail@goonj.org
Phone number: 011- 41401216
Teach For India
Teach For India fellows actively work in underserved communities, including urban slums and government schools, where they often organize donation drives to support the students in need. Through collaborations with partner organizations and local donors, many of these initiatives provide free school kits—containing essentials like notebooks, pens, bags, and uniforms—to underprivileged children, helping them stay engaged in their education.
How to reach out
Visit and reach out to a fellow or regional team in your city to learn more about ongoing programs and how to request support.
Website: Teach for India NGO in Mumbai
Akshaya Patra Foundation
Widely known for their mid-day meal programs, Akshaya Patra also supports unprivileged students beyond nutrition. This NGO partners with corporates and donors to distribute school bags, notebooks, and hygiene kits in selected states.
How to access
Visit and look for student supportive initiatives under the “Get Involved” section for the programs.
Website: Akshay Patra NGO in Bangalore
Email: infodesk@akshayapatra.org
Phone number: 91 80 3014 3400
Smile Foundation
This NGO runs Mission Education, supporting over 25,000 children with schooling needs. Their programs often include free learning materials, uniforms, and books.
How to access
Visit smilefoundationindia.org and locate a project near you.
Website: Smile Foundation NGO in Delhi
Email: info@smilefoundationindia.org
Phone number: +91-11-43123700
Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas
Run by the Ministry of Education, this NGO aims to empower girls from disadvantaged communities. These schools provide free uniforms, books, stationery, and boarding facilities, creating a safe and supportive environment for the girls.
How to access
Apply through local education officers or school authorities in rural areas, especially in backward districts.
Website: Read Wiki page.
State Education Departments’ Free Uniform and Book Schemes
Most state governments in India (like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala) offer free textbooks and uniforms to children enrolled in government schools.
How to access
Enroll in a nearby government school and inquire during admission about the school supplies.
Child Rights and You (CRY)
CRY supports children from marginalized communities with schooling, often including books and basic learning supplies.
How to access
Visit cry.org to find active projects and contact local field offices.
Website: https://www.cry.org/
Email: writetous@crymail.org
Phone number: +91 9115911500
Nanhi Kali
Nanhi Kali is a well-regarded initiative that supports the education of underprivileged girl students across India. Each year, the program provides specially curated educational kits that include schoolbags, stationery, workbooks, and other learning essentials—helping girls stay in school and succeed academically.
How to access
Visit www.nanhikali.org to register a beneficiary or refer a girl in need.
Website: https://www.nanhikali.org/
Email: support@nanhikali.org
Phone number: +91 22 6897 5500
Samastha Lokhit Seva
This grassroot NGO is making a meaningful impact in parts of in parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh by organizing school kit drives at the beginning of every session.
How to access
Follow their Facebook or connect with local volunteers in your village or block area.
Website: https://lokhitsankalpseva.com/
Email: info@lokhitsankalpseva.com
Phone number: 07672-357400
Rotary Clubs and Local Lions Clubs
Many Rotary Clubs and Lions Clubs across Indian cities and towns actively run community service programs that include the annual distribution of free school kits. These kits typically include schoolbags, notebooks, stationery, and other essentials, helping students from low-income families start the academic year with confidence.
How to access
Reach out to your nearest Rotary or Lions Club chapter directly, or keep an eye on local newspapers, notice boards, and community WhatsApp groups
NGOs providing Free School Supplies: Endnotes
Access to school supplies should not be a privilege. These organizations are doing the crucial work of leveling the playing field so that every child, regardless of background, can go to school with dignity. If you or someone you know needs help, don’t hesitate to reach out. And if you’re in a position to support, consider donating or volunteering.
Let’s spread the awareness and make a difference together!
