Second-hand shop saving parents this back-to-school season

EAST SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)–With the first day of school on the horizon, families are running around trying to get last-minute back-to-school essentials. Once Upon a Child has become a go-to destination for families to get their kids a new school wardrobe.

Canastota mom, Rachel Brophy says that her family of six have mixed emotions on back-to-school shopping–excitement for the kids and stress for the parents. But they always seem to make it work.

“We make smart choices when it comes to spending money as far as these things go. We know where to shop, and we make the deals. Not everything has to be name brand,” said Brophy.

From backpacks to clothing, this store has become the one-stop shop for families who are trying to save an extra dollar–a priority, especially with inflation. For Rachel’s family, it’s really hard for them nowadays to keep up even more so when you’re not just shopping for clothes but supplies as well.

She sits down with her four kids and plans in advance what her kids are allowed to bring home from the store. She usually gives them several shirts and several pairs of pants to look for. After they’re done choosing, typically, they’ll go through and they’ll count how many they have of each item.

But one thing that this family favors more than second-hand shops is allowing her children to express themselves through clothing.

“Every kid deserves a chance to express who they are, rather than what their parents think they should be. I think kids, especially at a young adolescent age like most of mine are, they like to have that freedom to explore style. I like to offer suggestions rather than, you’re getting this or you’re getting that,” stated Brophy

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