PLEASE NOTE: Some programs and policies may be altered due to COVID-19.
Who is eligible to shop at Crayons to Computers?
Educators must be preschool through grade 12 lead classroom teachers or preschool program directors employed at a school where at least 55% of the students qualify for the USDA’s National School Lunch Program. Currently Crayons to Computers serves 466 eligible schools and preschool programs in 16 counties of Greater Cincinnati. Click here to see the list of schools who are eligible to shop at Crayons to Computers.
Starting with the 2021-22 school year, Crayons will charge an access fee per shopper each school year. Please click here for more information about the access fee.
What if a teacher is not eligible to shop?
Teachers from area schools that do not meet the eligibility criteria can take advantage of the Volunteer to Shop program. Teachers will need to pay a one-time VTS access fee of $25 and volunteer for three hours to earn a certificate for one shopping trip. Click here to learn more about the Volunteer to Shop program.
How do I get to Crayons to Computers?
Click here for directions.
What items are most needed?
Teachers always need basic school supplies such as pencils, pens, markers, crayons, glue, scissors, and notebook filler paper. Teachers are very creative and use products that you would never imagine in a classroom. Check out our wish list for specifics.
What are the shopping hours for teachers?
Crayons to Computers' Teacher Resource Center is open for shopping Tuesday–Thursday when school is in session. Our shopping hours are 2:30PM–6:30PM (all shoppers must check in by 6:00PM). Teachers who volunteer on Saturday mornings (9:00AM–1:00PM) may shop after their shift.
Are there any limits for shoppers?
Yes. Many items are limited to ensure that merchandise is fairly distributed to all schools and their students. Those items are clearly marked with the maximum quantities allowed.
What if I need a specific item?
Please use this link to request items you need for your classroom that are not typically stocked in our Store. We will contact you if we have the requested item in stock or if we receive it in a future donation.
How much is a shopping trip worth?
During the 2018–2019 academic year, teachers left our Teacher Resource Center with an average of $524 worth of valuable school supplies and related materials.
May students volunteer at Crayons to Computers for community service hours?
Yes. Students ages 14 and over are encouraged to fulfill their community service hours at Crayons to Computers. Please contact Taylor Young at tyoung[at]crayons2computers.org for details. Click here for more information on volunteering.
Are there any other programs like Crayons to Computers around the country?
Yes. Crayons to Computers is the model for 39 other resource centers nationally. We share best practices and other benefits on a regular basis. Click here for more information on other centers.