If you’re homeschooling on a budget, finding free curriculum can be a game changer. Two well-known nonprofit organizations that help families access free educational resources are the Book Samaritan homeschool curriculum and Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping (HSCFFS). While both share a mission of supporting homeschool families in need, they operate in slightly different ways. Here’s how they compare.
Book Samaritan Homeschool Curriculum
Book Samaritan is a nonprofit organization that provides free homeschool curriculum and books to families who need them. Families submit a request with the grade level and subjects they’re looking for, and volunteers fulfill those requests based on donated inventory. Materials often include gently used textbooks, workbooks, and teacher’s guides.
Requests are filled as supplies allow, and although everything is free, families may occasionally be asked to cover shipping. The organization runs on donations and is fueled by the generosity of the homeschool community.
Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping (HSCFFS)
Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping is also a nonprofit organization that helps homeschooling families by redistributing curriculum at no cost other than shipping. Originally started as a Facebook group, HSCFFS has grown into a large community where members can request or donate curriculum.
Unlike traditional retail exchanges, this group focuses on gift-based giving. Families post curriculum they’re giving away, and others can request it—usually with the understanding that the recipient covers shipping costs. The group is active, fast-paced, and built around the core value of mutual support.
Comparing the Two
| Feature | Book Samaritan Homeschool Curriculum | Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping (HSCFFS) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Organization | Nonprofit | Nonprofit |
| Method of Distribution | Formal request system | Community exchange via Facebook group |
| Type of Materials | Physical books and curriculum sets | Physical books and individual curriculum pieces |
| Availability | Based on donated inventory | Continuously changing based on member posts |
| Structure | Moderated request and fulfillment process | Peer-to-peer giving within a moderated group |
| Cost | Free (may pay shipping) | Free (pay shipping) |
Which Should You Choose?
Both organizations offer tremendous value to the homeschool community. If you’re looking for a more structured process and possibly a full curriculum set, the Book Samaritan homeschool curriculum may be ideal. If you’re more comfortable with an active community setting where materials are shared in real time, Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping is a wonderful option.
Many families find that using both resources together gives them the greatest chance of getting what they need to homeschool successfully.
Final Thoughts
Whether you reach out to Book Samaritan or engage with Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping, you’ll find caring communities committed to making homeschooling affordable and accessible. These nonprofits exist because of the generosity of other homeschool families—and they remind us that support and kindness go a long way in education.
