Waterbury families can get free uniforms and supplies through Acts 4 Ministry ahead of back-to-school season

WATERBURY, Conn. (WFSB) - With back-to-school season weeks away, one study found one in five families is looking for free options for supplies. For families in Waterbury, one local organization is offering free uniforms, bookbags and more.

Free uniforms in Waterbury

Acts 4 Ministry is providing Waterbury families with two free uniforms per child. Each student also receives a bookbag filled with school supplies and personal hygiene items.

Both Holy Cross and the Waterbury Public Schools system require students to wear uniforms. Shannon Smith, a Waterbury parent, said the cost adds up quickly.

“It was over $700 just for one kid. So, it’s expensive. It’s hard,” Smith said.

Sarah Elizabeth DiMeo, executive director of Acts 4 Ministry, said demand for the program has grown.

“I can tell you that since the start of 2026, 58% of our clients are new, meaning they’ve never come to us before, so that shows you the depth of need in our community,” DiMeo said.

Tips to make uniforms last

DiMeo said she has picked up uniform care tips from the families she has served over the years.

“A single mother of four children told me this probably, it was about 10 years ago, I’ve been in this role for almost 14 years, and she said a little bit of white vinegar and baking soda goes a long way on stains, and it keeps the longevity and the freshness of each uniform,” DiMeo said.

Smith said teaching children to take care of their belongings is also key.

“If you teach them how to take care of themselves, have pride in everything that they own, when they go to school, they’ll have the same behavior. They won’t be there in the dirt and kicking rocks with your shoes,” Smith said.