JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With the first day of school in Duval County set for Monday, Saint Paul A.M.E. Church opened its doors Saturday to help families get ready, drawing nearly 500 families for its annual Back-to-School Bash.
The giveaway at the church on New Kings Road provided free backpacks and school supplies, along with clothing, shoes and haircuts.
Parents and students lined up outside the church before the doors opened.
“I haven’t been to one before, so today is my first time,” Surtrena Jackson said. My grandmother introduced me, shout out to Betty Clark, but other than that, everything has been really nice."
Students said they were looking for practical items for the school year — including supplies and outerwear, and also looking ahead to the start of classes.
“I probably get school supplies, get a jacket for the winter, or of course the rain too. The weather’s kind of bad today,” one Duval County student said.
Barbers volunteered their time to provide free cuts, saying a fresh haircut can help students feel more confident heading back to school.
“If you can make them smile just by saying, ‘Hey, I got a new cut,’ … I can go out and I just feel good about myself,” barber Breshuan Cobb said. “If you feel good, you look good … you do good.”
The event marked the fourth year Saint Paul A.M.E. has held the back-to-school giveaway, and church leaders said the need continues to grow.
“In these hard economic times, everyone needs a little help,” said the Rev. Willie Barnes, senior pastor of Saint Paul A.M.E. Church. “And so if we are able to lighten the load just a little bit by having someone not have to think about book bags, school supplies, or haircuts, then it’s really an honor to do that.”
Barnes said more than 50 volunteers and community partners helped make the event possible, with organizers aiming to ensure every child left with what they needed for the classroom.
“Our hope is that everyone just continues to keep moving forward,” Barnes said. “I know times are challenging, things are tough, society is changing, but keep moving forward.”
Barnes said families who were unable to attend Saturday may still be able to pick up remaining supplies Sunday morning during the church’s worship service, while supplies last.