Recession Pinches Back-to-School Budgets

They started lining up Monday, sleeping on the streets of skid row for a chance to get free shoes and school supplies at the Fred Jordan mission.

Mya Palacio, four of her siblings, and her mom slept overnight in a tent, at a time when many cities are said to be turning a corner in this recession, California's unemployment is a whopping 12.2 percent. Mya's dad had his work hours cut back because of the economy. Now the family budget it tight.

"We just try to find the cheapest," said Bobbie Ramirez, Mya's mom. "Going to the 99 cent store."

Mya doesn't ask for much, and she's not embarrassed about her situation.

"What do you think when you see all these other families out here?" asked CBS News correspondent Sandra Hughes.

"It makes me think I'm not the only one struggling," Mya said.

Everything from shampoo, to jackets to jeans are donated for the giveaway. But this year, because of the economy, donations are down 30 percent. Corporations like Foot Locker and Guess are big donors, but individuals give to the mission, too. Last year they had $2 million in donated merchandise to give away. This year only half of that - yet 500 more people showed up this year - 5,500 in all.

"Everyone will receive something, even if they don't get a complete outfit," said Willie Jordan, the president of the Fred Jordan Missions.

Mission officials say they see more unemployed dads and more children in need.

"I like them a lot," Mya said of a pair of shoes she got at the mission. "And I'm grateful for what I did get."

A bag full of supplies - and a lesson in good will.