Grace Place for Children and Families hosted its fourth annual Back to School Bash July 19, drawing more than 1,250 attendees from the Golden Gate community in Naples.
The nonprofit distributed over 940 backpacks filled with grade-specific supplies to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, helping families prepare for the school year.
The event also offered free health and vision screenings through partnerships with local organizations.
“Back to School Bash is about more than just backpacks,” said Lära Fisher, CEO of Grace Place. “It’s about lifting a weight off families’ shoulders and creating a community where children and parents feel supported and ready for the school year.”
Founded in 2004, Grace Place focuses on family literacy and education programs, providing resources designed to break the cycle of poverty and empower families.
Mickenzie Hannon is a watchdog reporter for The News-Press and Naples Daily News, covering Collier and Lee counties. Contact her at 239-435-3423 or mhannon@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Grace Place gives 940 backpacks at Back to School Bash
Reporting by Mickenzie Hannon, Naples Daily News / Naples Daily News
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