Hi there, yes you do it's called a scoby, you add it to the tea and sugar brew and that's what helps it ferment, you maybe be able to find someone who has some online :)
That’s how it is in the states now. Can’t find many items on the shelves. People keep hoarding beyond means. With you, you have a large family, so it makes sense. But some people here in the states would buy like 12 packs of water etc and resell it. So now, it’s hard to find pastas, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, tissue, some produce and canned goods along with beef and chicken, etc. I hope soon that this pandemic goes away.. I miss the norm... Take care of yourself