CHARLESTON -- The West Virginia Department of Human Services will begin accepting applications July 20 for the 2026 School Clothing Allowance Program, providing eligible families with assistance to purchase clothing and school supplies for children.
The program's opening had been delayed because of uncertainty surrounding federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funding. Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the state has secured funding to open the program for the 2026-27 school year.
“We are doing this the right way, and we're working to make funding streams last,” Morrisey said. “COVID-era reliance on one-time money helped create these challenges, so now we are working to put this program on solid footing. Starting July 20, West Virginia families can apply for the School Clothing Allowance.”
Families must apply to receive the benefit and can submit applications online at www.wvpath.wv.gov
, request a paper application through their local Department of Human Services office or call 1-877-716-1212.
Applications will be accepted through Aug. 15 or until available funds are exhausted, whichever comes first. Applications must be received by the local office before the program closes.
Eligible children will receive a $200 benefit that can be used to purchase school clothing or piece goods for families who make their own clothing.
For a family of four, the monthly income limit for eligibility is $3,483. Applicants must submit verification of July 2026 income with their application.
Benefits will be issued through recipients' electronic benefit transfer cards, which can be used like debit cards at retailers that accept EBT cash transactions. The change allows families to shop online and provides more options for purchasing clothing.
Parents or guardians of children in foster care will receive the benefit by check.
Families needing to update their address can do so through www.wvpath.wv.gov
or by contacting the DoHS Customer Service Center at 1-877-716-1212.