Hi Friends, 

As you gear up for the new school year, I wanted to direct you to some resources that help cut costs and make sure you have the tools to succeed in the classroom. 

The key to a better Rio Grande Valley is investing in our students. I believe education is the great equalizer. I know firsthand how a strong foundation undeniably provides opportunities but can also be expensive. This is why I introduced legislation to forgive $25,000 in federal student loan debt, voted for the American Rescue Plan that provides funds to keep kids in schools and teachers employed, and expanded the Child Tax Credit to help families pay for food, school supplies, and more. I promise to keep advocating for South Texas in Congress and for a better education for our kids. 

 
Tax Free Weekend 

In 1999, the Texas Legislature passed into law what is now known as “Tax Free Weekend”.  

To qualify for the exemption price, items must be under $100 and must fall under categories such as clothes, backpacks, and school supplies. 

This year, Tax Free Weekend is August 5-7. To learn more click here.  
 
School Districts Providing Supplies for Students 

Many school districts in South Texas are providing back-to-school supplies for their students. Below are some ISDs who have announced they are providing an assortment of supplies for students.  
 
 
 
South Texas Health System Children’s Back-to-School Block party 

On Saturday, August 6, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM get school-ready with South Texas Health System Children’s at their Back-to-School Block Party! 

South Texas Health System Children’s is helping kids get ready to go back to school with a fun-packed celebration that will include: 

• Free school supplies (while supplies last) 
• Games 
• Complimentary snacks 
• Health screenings for the whole family 
• Community resources 
• Local police department safety checks  
• And more! 

The event will take place outside in the South Texas Health System Children's main parking lot. 
 
 

Back to School Immunizations 

It’s important that our kids stay healthy at school. Make sure your kids are up to date on their immunizations through some resources below: 

State Children’s Health Insurance 
The State Children’s Health Insurance (SCHIP) program provides health coverage to uninsured children whose families earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford private coverage. All states provide immunizations at no cost and may cover much more. To learn more about this program, visit the SCHIP program page.  To see what SCHIP covers in Texas, visit the SCHIP State Selection page. 

Taxonomy State Coverage Page  
Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides no-cost or low-cost health coverage for eligible children in Texas. These programs provide health coverage for children so that they can get routine check-ups, immunizations, and dental care to keep them healthy. 

Even if your child has been turned down in the past or you don't know if they qualify, you may be able to get health coverage now. 

Hidalgo County Immunization Program 
The Hidalgo County Immunization Program provides vaccines throughout the year to children and adults through federal & state funded programs and medical coverage/insurances. This program also dedicates their efforts to raise awareness and educate Hidalgo County residents and medical providers on vaccine-preventable diseases and updates on medical countermeasures. The funded programs include Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) and Adult Safety Net (ASN). 
 
To see if you qualify go here. 
 

Sincerely,

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez