Students in Dallas return to school in just three days, and on Saturday, many received the backpacks and supplies they need — completely free of charge — at a back-to-school festival in Oak Cliff. Organizers handed out 4,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, with a total value of approximately $65,000, helping ease the financial burden for families preparing for the new school year.
A long line of parents and students stretched outside For Oak Cliff’s Community Campus for the 11th annual back-to-school festival, demonstrating the strong demand for community support. The event helped thousands of families start the school year off on the right foot with not only free backpacks but also the first-ever Shoesday giveaway, which provided $100 gift cards to more than 100 families to purchase new shoes for their children.
In addition to school supplies, the festival created a community-centered atmosphere with activities and resources for families, including food vendors, a kids’ zone, and access to additional support services. These efforts help ensure that students are prepared both inside and outside the classroom as they begin the academic year.
Events like this play an important role in supporting families as back-to-school costs continue to rise, particularly for households managing multiple students. By providing essential supplies and financial relief, community partners are able to make a meaningful impact ahead of the school year.
Supported in part by Witherite Law Group, the initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to giving back and supporting local communities through education-focused programs.
For more details about the event and its impact, read the full story on CBS News Texas.
