Rotterdam politicians demand data on children lacking school supplies

The political party PRO Rotterdam has submitted written questions to the city administration regarding the number of children in Rotterdam who lack essential school supplies at the start of the academic year. This inquiry follows research by the Armoedefonds, which indicates that many children living in poverty lack items such as laptops, school bags, gym clothing, or calculators.

According to the party, nearly two-thirds of aid organizations observe children missing necessary supplies. The lack of these items is linked to consequences including shame, social exclusion, stress, concentration problems, and school absenteeism. PRO council members Quen van Meer and Sarah Reitema are seeking data on how many children are affected and whether the municipality or schools maintain structural records of these shortages.

Additionally, the party is inquiring about existing municipal support schemes for low-income families beyond the Jeugdeducatiefonds and is calling for increased awareness of such programs through schools, doctors, and community centers. They are also asking the city to investigate whether rising living costs will increase the need for support for the 2026-2027 school year.