The new clutches are 399. But it is a worthy investment because you won't be rebuilding them hardly ever and if you have a problem and strip a gear, you don't throw the whole clutch hub away, you just replace the gear insert at $35. It is a hard pill to swallow up front for $399, but it will be money saved probably in your first season depending how often you race.
I don't need to hear the benefits of the front brakes, I understand them plenty and I don't want them on my son's Bandolero. Yes, I have bought those parts, but front brakes wouldn't have prevented any of it from happening. That is also my point, the benefit doesn't outweigh costs in my opinion. A driver can be taught not to "hammer" the brakes and still slow the car down. Teaching drivers not to over-react on the wheel or brakes is very important in my opinion.
My point is there is a series and class out there for you if you don't feel this series is safe enough for you or your kid, you can get a MiniCup car.