Free haircuts, backpacks offered as school supply costs surge

Back-to-school costs are up nearly 8% from 2025, adding pressure for families across Southern Arizona. An analysis from the Groundwork Collaborative and The Century Foundation estimates that a typical family could spend about $4,000 per child on school supplies and lunches this school year.

Some items have seen especially large increases. One-subject notebooks cost 92 cents more, notebook paper is up 18 cents, and lunch boxes have risen by $4. School lunch items are about 11% more expensive than last year. The groups point to tariffs on products made overseas as a major reason for the higher prices.

Deejays Against Hunger and Brotherz Barber Shop held a free back-to-school event Sunday, providing haircuts and backpacks to more than 100 children. DJ Jahmar Anthony organized the gathering, which was his sixth annual back-to-school event. Brotherz Barber Shop owner Jorge Sierra also brought in barber students to help.

The event offered some financial relief to parents preparing for the school year. Southern Arizona districts are scheduled to begin welcoming students this week. DJ Jahmar said his next free community event will be a Trunk-or-Treat at the Bargain Warehouse on Old Nogales Highway on October 29.