As a new school year inches closer, the need for school supplies become greater.

Teachers told KTXS they often dig deep into their own pockets for supplies students sometimes can't afford.

As a parent, you know it's back to school when school supplies become the center of your world.

But for some children, these simple items don't make their way into a cubby or backpack.

"Only about one out of every ten kids that come to this campus come a from a strong economic background," said Reagan Elementary Principal, Ketta Garduna.

That leaves a lot more looking for a helping hand.

If they can't find one, many educators take matters into their own.

"Many of our teachers spend a great deal of their own money to supply the things that kids need and some of the things the kids want to make it a little extra special for them," Garduna said.

"Hundreds of dollars of school supplies within my teaching career," Reagan 3rd grade teacher, Ryan Bell said. "You want to provide what they need to be successful in their learning and want them to be confident and enjoy being at school and we'll do what that takes to make that happen."

Students who don't have supplies are usually referred to counselors who will find organizations that can help them out.

Here are the facts on this Friday's donation drive.

It will be held at H-E-B on Barrow and 14th street.

Donations can be in the form of school supplies or money.

The drive will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

A sample of the items needed: backpacks, scissors, pens, colored pencils to name a few.

The items will be distributed next week by "Communities in Schools."