THE CHRISTCHURCH CITY MISSION has a Back to School programme to help families with these costs. www.citymission.org.nz/back-to-school

Low income families can also access help for school costs through MSD. You don't have to be on a benefit to get this assistance, but you do have to pay it back. www.workandincome.govt.nz/eligibility/children/school-uniforms-and-stationery.html

THE CHRISTCHURCH CITY SALVATION ARMY has interest free loans to assist with devices and school costs. Contact your nearest centre. www.salvationarmy.org.nz/

THE JR MCKENZIE YOUTH FUND can help where death, sickness, family break up or economic hardship make it hard for families to meet school costs. www.youtheducationfund.org.nz/

VARIETY NEW ZEALAND helps Kiwi kids have a better childhood with grants, sponsorship and other assistance to get through school. www.variety.org.nz/how-we-help/

If you live in Papanui, ROTARY'S CHILDREN IN NEED TRUST can help with small grants, but remember it is for Papanui residents. www.papanuirotary.org.nz/page/children-in-need-trust

MAKE IT HAPPEN CHRISTCHURCH helps families with school-related costs including uniform, fees, school trips, sports, music and cultural activities. https://www.makeithappen.kiwi.nz/

MAYOR'S WELFARE FUND is only available for Christchurch City residents, and can provide assistance on a one-off basis where real need can be shown. The fund is a last resort when other avenues have been exhausted. https://ccc.govt.nz/culture-and-community/community-funding/mayors-welfare-fund