It just took one step into the Village Academy gymnasium to see what was going on.
Magic, row by row.
Rows of school supplies waiting to be chosen. Crayons, pencils, notebooks, folders, glue, scissors, lunchboxes and backpacks. And socks and brand new sneakers. And soap and toothbrushes and deodorant…Simple school day necessities that many Palm Beach County families struggle to afford this time of year.
But thanks to Spirit of Giving and the dozens of charities within its network of non-profit organizations and local companies that make generous donations, all of these back-to-school supplies were provided to more than 10,000 Palm Beach County students during Spirit of Giving’s annual Back to School PBC! event on Aug. 3.
“The 2024 Back to School PBC! was a tremendous success. Thousands of children were empowered to ‘shop’ for all the resources they need for the new school year,” said Spirit of Giving Executive Director Lindy Harvey.
While volunteers helped children choose their school supplies, get fitted for proper bike helmets and try on sneakers with the help of the In Jacob’s Shoes team, parents were provided with medical resources and even complimentary mammograms courtesy of Boca Raton Regional Hospital and the Lynn Cancer Institute. Students received hearing screenings, physicals, and important information from local doctors and experts from countless local agencies.
And don’t count out great outdoor fun here, too! Festivities extended beyond the distribution of supplies, with the Boca Raton Bowl’s signature Lou Groza Award kicking inflatable, ESPN West Palm’s football toss, and music from local nonprofit Digial Vibez lighting up the courtyard. Former Dolphins wide receiver OJ McDuffie teamed up with the Palm Beach County Sports Commission to help pack backpacks, sign autographs and best of all, inspire the kiddos through conversation and connection.
Spirit. Collaboration. Unwavering support. The success of the Back-to-School PBC! event is a testament to the power of community partnerships. Talk about a collective effort of sponsors, donors, and volunteers creating an environment where children can start their school year with joy and confidence.
“With all of our community partners, it becomes a true community-wide celebration, bringing together so many to share resources with these deserving families,” Harvey added.
For more information on how you can continue to support Spirit of Giving’s initiatives and future events, or to get involved, visit spiritofgivingnetwork.com.
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