Step 1: Download the App
SupplyScout is available for both iOS and Android devices. Choose your platform below:
Find SupplyScout in Your App Store
Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for "SupplyScout".
Tap Install
Download and install the app. This usually takes 1-2 minutes depending on your connection.
Grant Permissions
When you first open the app, SupplyScout will ask for permission to access your location. This is essential for finding nearby stores. You can adjust these permissions later in your device settings.
Step 2: Create Your Account
You'll need an account to report supplies and save preferences. Account creation is quick and free.
Launch the App
Open SupplyScout and you'll be greeted with the login screen.
Sign Up or Log In
Tap "Sign Up" and provide your email address and a password. Your email will be used for important notifications and account recovery.
Verify Your Email
Check your email inbox for a verification link from SupplyScout. Click the link to confirm your email address.
Step 3: Your First Steps
Explore the Map
After logging in, you'll see the main map view showing stores and supply availability in your area. Each store shows icons for available supplies. Let's break down what you'll see:
Blue Store Icons: Regular stores with supply information
Emoji Indicators: Show supply status (✅ In stock, ⚠️ Limited, ❌ Out of stock)
Last Updated: How recently the information was reported
Find Your First Supply
Let's search for something specific. Tap the search icon and search for "ice" or another supply you're interested in. The map will highlight stores with that item in stock.
Tap a Store
Tap any store on the map to see detailed information about available supplies. You'll see a popup with:
- Store name and address
- What supplies are available
- When the information was last updated
- Buttons to view directions or report supplies
Report Supplies (Optional but Helpful!)
See supplies at a store? Help the community by reporting them! Tap the "Report Supplies" button on any store and indicate which items are available, limited, or out of stock.
Quick Orientation Tips
🎯 Essential Features
- Map Zoom: Pinch to zoom in/out on the map to see different areas
- My Location: Tap the location icon to center the map on your current position
- Search: Use the search bar to find specific items or store names
- Profile: Tap your profile icon to manage account settings and preferences
What's Next?
Congratulations! You're now ready to use SupplyScout. Here are your next steps:
Common Issues
Location Permission Not Working
Make sure you've granted SupplyScout permission to access your location. Go to your device settings > App Permissions > SupplyScout > Location and ensure it's set to "Always" or "While Using."
Email Verification Not Arriving
Check your spam folder. If you still don't see the verification email after 5 minutes, contact support at support@supplyscout.org
Can't Find Stores Near Me
SupplyScout covers 5,000+ store locations globally. If your area has limited coverage, consider reporting stores you know about so other community members can use them too!