LOS ANGELES – More than 1,000 students in South Los Angeles will receive free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts and meals at Impact LA’s 6th Annual Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway on August 2.
The event runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Barack Obama Charter School, part of the Ingenium Schools network, at 13305 San Pedro St.
Romeo from the 93.5 KDAY Morning Show will host the free community event, which also features games, entertainment and access to local resources for families preparing for the new school year.
The giveaway addresses the financial burden many families face when purchasing school supplies at the start of each academic year. Back-to-school shopping can cost families hundreds of dollars per child, a significant expense in South LA where the median household income is $43,000, well below the Los Angeles County average of $70,000.
“We’re grateful to have our community organizations and leaders supporting this event—it’s about more than school supplies, it’s about reminding kids that their community believes in them,” Courtney Lockridge, Executive Director of Impact LA, said.
The event includes free haircuts and grooming services for youth, ensuring students start the school year feeling confident and prepared, organizers said. Professional barbers and stylists will be available throughout the day to serve children and teenagers.
A kids’ zone with games and enrichment activities will keep younger children engaged while their families access resources. Live DJ performances, giveaways and entertainment will also be present.
Local vendor booths will showcase businesses and services available to South LA residents. Nonprofit organizations will also have resource tables available for families, connecting them with ongoing support services including food assistance, healthcare resources and educational programs.
Free food and beverages will be provided throughout the event, making it a complete family experience that removes financial barriers to participation.
Impact LA, founded in 2017, focuses on addressing food insecurity, empowering youth and connecting families with vital resources. The organization serves thousands of residents throughout LA County each year.
Sponsorship, vendor and volunteer opportunities are still available for the event. Those interested can visit impactla.org or the organization’s Eventbrite page to get involved.
The event is open to the public with free admission. No registration is required, and families can arrive at any time during the event hours.
