Typically this is the time of year when families add shopping for school supplies as an essential task to their routine to-do lists. However, due to the current pandemic with numerous families being financially affected by recent job losses and other financial constraints, finding school supplies for children can become an unusually daunting task. Recognizing these challenges, the City of Groveland made the decision to continue its annual Back2School Bash event, by partnering with local organizations for a special socially distant drive-thru experience. This outreach will provide 750 free backpacks filled with school supplies to families in the community. Individuals in attendance will also receive one free meal as 1,000 hot dogs, chips and drinks have been donated by local sponsors to enhance this drive-thru experience.
This event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 1, from 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. while supplies last, on the grounds of Hope International Church, located at 13806 State Road 33, Groveland, FL 34736. The Back2School Bash is geared for those children in grades Kindergarten through Eighth grade. Adult and child must be present upon arrival to receive backpacks, supplies and food.
“It is important to us to be able to give back to the community in a time when they need it the most, which is right now,” said Mayor Evelyn Wilson. “This event will help to provide children with the necessary tools they need to be successful in this upcoming school year, and we are happy to be a part of that.”
The City’s hope is that by providing free backpacks and essential school supplies, families will be able to save their resources towards other equally necessary endeavors. Participating parents can expect to see volunteers wearing masks and gloves, as they hand out one backpack per child, and one free meal tote per person, complete with a hotdog, chips, and a drink. As each car drives underneath the church’s breezeway, all occupants are asked to remain inside their vehicles while receiving their free items.
The City of Groveland thanks the following partners and sponsors who helped make this community event possible: Hope International Church, Steel Worx Solutions, Be Free Lake, Anointed Community Services, CenterState Bank, Waste Connections, The Pastor’s Huddle, and a host of volunteers.
