The back-to-school season brings excitement, fresh starts—and for many families, a long to-do list. Between scheduling physicals and immunizations, purchasing school supplies, packing healthy lunches, and navigating extracurricular expenses, the costs and logistics can add up quickly.
To help make the transition back to school a little easier, we’ve rounded up some of the best free and low-cost resources available to families throughout Central Indiana. Whether you’re looking for vaccinations, affordable school supplies, healthy meal ideas, or assistance programs, these organizations and resources can help your family start the school year strong.
A One-Stop Back-to-School Health Check: Walmart Wellness Day
As families prepare for the new school year, don’t overlook one of the easiest opportunities to check multiple health to-dos off your list in a single trip. The annual Walmart Wellness Day, often promoted as the retailer’s Back-to-School Wellness Event, is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at participating Walmart locations nationwide. During the event, local Walmart pharmacies provide free health screenings and affordable immunizations to help families prepare for the school year.
Families can take advantage of several free health services, including blood pressure screenings, body mass index (BMI) testing, and cholesterol and glucose checks. Participating pharmacies also offer low-cost or insurance-covered immunizations, including flu, COVID-19, RSV, tetanus, and other recommended vaccines. Select Walmart Supercenters with vision centers may also provide complimentary vision screenings.
To confirm whether your local store is participating and to see which services will be available, visit Walmart’s Wellness Hub and Event Locator or search for your nearest store at Walmart Store Finder. With more than 4,600 participating pharmacies nationwide, there’s a good chance you’ll find a convenient location close to home.
Make this a one-stop shop and pick up your backpack, supplies, and healthy lunch selections. Walmart’s AI tool, Sparky, can help you find healthy lunch options, supply essentials, and the latest in fashion and apparel. Walmart has some amazing new brands!
Immunizations and School Physicals
Before the first day of school, make sure your child is up to date on Indiana’s required immunizations. Children entering kindergarten, sixth grade, and twelfth grade have specific vaccination requirements, and many local organizations offer free or low-cost options for families.
Indiana Department of Health: Start Smart Program
The Indiana Department of Health’s “Start Smart” initiative provides a statewide directory of vaccination clinics, including many locations offering walk-in appointments and free vaccines for eligible families.
Marion County Public Health Department
The Marion County Public Health Department offers free and low-cost immunization clinics throughout the summer and back-to-school season for eligible children.
Indiana Immunization Coalition
The Indiana Immunization Coalition operates mobile vaccine clinics across Indiana, helping families overcome transportation, language, and financial barriers to accessing vaccines.
HealthNet Speedway Health & Dental Center
HealthNet offers affordable pediatric care, immunizations, physicals, and preventive services regardless of insurance status.
Finding Affordable School Supplies
School supply costs continue to rise, but several local organizations help ensure every student receives the tools they need to succeed.
Teachers’ Treasures
Teachers’ Treasures serves thousands of Central Indiana students annually by providing free supplies through teachers and schools.
Community Back-to-School Events
Many school districts, churches, health systems, and nonprofits host annual backpack giveaways and school supply drives throughout July and August.
- Resource: Indy with Kids Community Events Calendar
- Resource: IndyHub Community Calendar
Healthy Lunches Without Breaking the Budget
Packing healthy lunches every day can feel overwhelming, especially when grocery prices are high. Fortunately, several local resources can help families stretch their food budgets while keeping kids fueled for learning.
SNAP and Free/Reduced School Meals
Families who qualify for SNAP benefits may also qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.
Indy Hunger Network
Indy Hunger Network connects families with food assistance programs, summer meal sites, food pantries, and nutrition resources throughout Central Indiana.
Additional Resources for Central Indiana Families
Merciful H.E.L.P. Center
Families in Hamilton County can access food assistance, clothing, school supplies, and other emergency resources.
Township Trustee Offices
Township trustee offices throughout Central Indiana often provide emergency assistance for school clothing, supplies, utilities, and other essential family needs.
- Marion County Township Trustees: Marion County Township Trustee Directory
- Hamilton County Township Trustees: Hamilton County Township Trustee Directory
- Indiana Township Association: Find Your Indiana Township Trustee
A Final Reminder for Parents
Back-to-school season can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Central Indiana is home to countless organizations dedicated to helping children succeed both inside and outside the classroom. If your family needs support this year, don’t hesitate to ask—because every child deserves to start the school year healthy, confident, and ready to learn.
