Back 2 School Giveaway returns to help local students with supplies
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POCATELLO — Hundreds of local students will head back to school with new backpacks and classroom supplies thanks to the annual Back 2 School Giveaway.
Sponsored by Grace Lutheran Church and School in partnership with area churches, community organizations and volunteers, the free giveaway will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Mountain View Event Center (The MEC), 1567 Way to Grace.
Organizer Caryn Elliott of Grace Lutheran said every child who attends the Back 2 School Giveaway will be welcomed and treated with dignity, respect and care.
“We don’t know every child’s background, but every child will be treated with honor and respect, and their needs are our priority,” Elliott said. “We want to get them started right by making sure they have what they need.”
The giveaway will use a ticket system, allowing families to enjoy the event instead of waiting in long lines. Students will receive a number upon arrival, and when their number is called, they can personally choose a backpack and shop for the school supplies they need while supplies last.
While families wait, they can enjoy a free hot dog lunch and visit community vendors offering resources, information and other services.
Children must be present with a parent or caregiver to receive a backpack and school supplies.
The giveaway has grown into one of southeast Idaho’s largest back-to-school outreach events. In recent years, organizers have helped prepare as many as 2,000 children for the upcoming school year through donations from businesses, churches and community members.
More than 100 volunteers help assemble supplies and serve families each year.
“We are grateful to our community partners and volunteers who helped make this possible,” Elliott said. “This is one of the ways we choose to serve our community, and we do it through the love of Christ.”
For more information, call Grace Lutheran Church at (208) 237-0467 or visit Back 2 School Giveaway on Facebook.
