Teachers' Treasures was founded in 2000 by a retired school principal, Phyllis Imel, who wished to continue helping the at-risk children in the community succeed in school.

​The "free store for teachers" opened in a small unused area in the basement of Washington Community School on the near Westside. A dedicated staff of volunteers began seeking product and financial contributions which could be used to provide teachers with the educational supplies and materials needed by the children in their classrooms. As awareness and interest grew throughout the educational and business communities, so did the need for more room. This need was met by Kroger, who leased a former store at 1800 E. 10th Street to the organization for a nominal fee. In September 2007, Teachers' Treasures opened a new location almost three times larger than the original space.

Learn about the Northwest Store 

Learn about what we do...

Our Mission

Teachers' Treasures obtains and distributes school supplies free to teachers of students in need.

Our Vision

All eligible teachers have easy access to free school supplies for their students living in poverty.

The Need

Every day at public, private, charter, and parochial schools located throughout Marion County, children of all ages attend class without the most basic supplies they need to get a good education. Dedicated teachers are often willing to pay for these much needed supplies out of their own pockets to make sure the kids in their classrooms have the necessary tools to learn.  On average, teachers spend $800-$1200 a year on school supplies for their students.

Our Answer

Teachers’ Treasures, in partnership with local businesses, charitable foundations, neighborhood organizations and individual contributors, helps fill this need by operating a volunteer-based “Store for Teachers.”  Donated educational supplies and other materials are distributed via this unique conduit to teachers for the benefit of their students. We serve teachers from any school (public, private, charter, or parochial) in Marion County and the immediately surrounding school districts with 60% of more of the student population on the free or reduced lunch programs are eligible.

100,000+

The number of students impacted by Teachers' Treasures each year. 

270+

6,000+
The average number of schools eligible to shop at Teachers' Treasures. 
The approximate number of teachers who participate in the program annually.

$75 Million

The value of school supplies Teachers' Treasures has given away since opening in 2000.

​HEAR SOME OF OUR TEACHERS' STORIES.

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​​Most of my students struggle to get their basic needs met. With your help, they are able to relax and feel more confident knowing that they will have the supplies they need to succeed. Motivational prizes and rewards help build relationships, as well. These are some of the most important tools for effective teaching: supplies and relationships. The aid you provide is immeasurable when you consider how it improves our society overall. Thank you.

​-TEACHERS' TREASURES SHOPPER