Hundreds of families in North Texas received free backpacks filled with school supplies and brand-new shoes at back-to-school events held over the weekend. The events, hosted by Dallas ISD and Arlington ISD, aimed to help students feel confident and prepared for the upcoming school year.
Dallas ISD Event
At the Dream Center Dallas, 1,500 backpacks were handed out along with new shoes donated through partner Soles4Souls. The event was designed to feel like a shopping experience, with families browsing the giveaway and selecting their own backpacks and shoes.
Organizers reported that the demand was so great that some families arrived as early as 7 p.m. on Friday and spent the night sleeping on the grass to secure a place in line. The line eventually wrapped around the building and had to be cut off.
Arlington ISD Event
Across the Metroplex, Arlington ISD hosted its own back-to-school kickoff at AT&T Stadium. District leaders said that more than 8,000 backpacks would be distributed, along with free school supplies, dental screenings, health screenings, and free haircuts.
The goal of the events was to help students feel confident and prepared before they walk into the classroom. As Arlington ISD Superintendent Matt Smith said, “With that first day, when students walk in our doors, we want them to feel successful right from the start.”
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
