INDIANAPOLIS -- An organization that helps provide school supplies for underprivileged children in Marion County said the need has doubled this year.

Teachers' Treasures has launched a $100,000 fundraising campaign in its 10th anniversary year in hopes of addressing the need, 6News' Julie Pursley reported.

Last year, fewer than 700 teachers bought a membership for the whole year. About 1,100 teachers have already applied this year, just a few weeks into the school year.

On the inside, the store looks like any other place to buy school supplies. At Teachers' Treasures, those who buy a membership can shop by the cartful for free once a month.

"Last year, on average, we had less than 40 teachers a day shopping," said Barb Pecina, of Teachers' Treasures. "Since school started this year, our average has been almost 90 a day."

The program is available to schools in Marion County where 40 percent or more of the student population is on reduced or assisted lunch programs. That includes many townships, some private and all Indianapolis Public Schools.

"In IPS, every teacher gets just under $200 that they can spend on school supplies for their classroom's children," said Mary Louise Bewley, IPS spokeswoman. "We encourage them to take some of that money and parlay it into a membership at Teachers' Treasures."

Parents mindful of the expense of school supplies are thankful the option exists.

"I … think it's really amazing they have an actual place that they can go and get things like this for their students," said Derek Craig, an IPS parent.

Teachers can stock up on paper, pencils, books and maps. The organization is turning to the community to help stock shelves.

"Studies have proven that children who are given the supplies they need in the classroom have better attendance. They have better test scores. It improves their self-esteem," Pecina said. "Giving a child a better education, that's how you break the cycle of poverty."

Teachers' Treasurers gave away more than $3 million in school supplies last year and expects to surpass that this year.

More Info: Teachers' Treasures Website