Backpack Giveaway Benefiting Hundreds of Oakland School Children Go Beyond School Supplies

Oakland, CA, August 11, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Popular Oakland backpack and school supply giveaway is expanding, as organizers sprinkle in life lessons such as safety and disaster preparedness while offering food and clothing at the 10th Annual Dope Era Backpack Giveaway benefiting hundreds of school children and families in the Oakland Area district.

Dope Era Entertainment, recording artist Mistah F.A.B. along with civic leaders, celebrities, community partners and conscientious community members come together every year to volunteer their time, knowledge and money to The Backpack Giveaway.

"Our community has a high number of low-income families that need help with getting kids ready for school," Mistah F.A.B. said. "The support of the community is crucial in making these events gainful, collectively we can make a huge impact and provide many struggling parents some relief."

Mistah F.A.B., Recording Artist

About 1000 students will receive much-needed school materials at the North Oakland Basketball Court on 44th and Linden Street at the 10th Annual Dope Era Backpack Giveaway, Sunday, August 23, 2015.  Local families are invited to bring their children between 12 p.m. to 6:00pm to pick up a backpack filled with pencils, paper, folders, glue and more. One backpack per child present will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. The event will also include safety awareness tips, food, prizes and entertainment.

In 2014, the National Retail Federation predicted the average person with children in grades K-12 would spend $101.18 on school supplies such as notebooks, pencils and backpacks.  Nearly 16 million children in the U.S. live in poverty, according to the U.S. Census from 2009-2013, 20.5% of Oakland’s population lives below the poverty threshold.  Families facing such financial hardship often times are not able to set aside additional expenses for supplies.

Dope Era Entertainment, Mistah F.A.B., and community leaders are doing their part to ensure that as many children as possible are set up for educational success.  For all who wish to help serve Oakland’s community during this time of year, a minimal donation of $5.00 can fill up a backpack with school supplies to ensure children have a fresh start at education. The Backpack Giveaway is also accepting donations in the form of food and beverages of any kind.  For more information on donating to the Backpack Giveaway please email your inquiry to [email protected].