By Amanda Pevey

Elmore Autauga News

On Sunday, the third annual back to school FREE backpack event was held at Crenshaw Park in Wetumpka. Over 150 students came to pick up backpacks, school supplies, food, sno cones, and receive haircuts. Children enjoyed the beautiful playground that was recently updated to provides shade on a hot day. They danced to music, played some basketball with friends, and had fun with one another.

There were barbers and hair stylists on site for children to receive new styles and cuts before school starts back on Wednesday. They included Shaitavia George, Labrasha Elmore George, LilKay, Neil Kendrick, and Montavious Smoke.

“Thank you to all of our sponsors and volunteers for helping make our 3rd annual back to school event a success,” said Elmore County Commissioner Desirae Lewis Jackson for District 5.

She continued, “Thank you to the students and parents as well! If you took part in any way of spreading the word of the event to the children of Elmore County, we thank you! When you have community leaders, churches, and organizations unite like we did today for our children, success is inevitable. We had over 150 students come out and enjoy themselves today and collect supplies they needed for their school year, at no costs to them. By providing the students with supplies, a nice hair cut or style and just a fun day before school starts Wednesday, we hope they know we care about their academics and success and that they are not alone on their journey! You never know what someone’s adversity may be, and we want them to return to school feeling ready and complete! We want all students focused on the most important thing. That is acquiring an education so they can become successful and knowledgeable leaders in the future. We wish all students a great and safe school year.”

This event is held on the first Sunday in August each year.

A big thank you to all of our sponsors and volunteers for the event:

Desirae Lewis Jackson- Elmore County Commissioner District 5

Marsha Elmore-Dewhart

Christian Williams

Pastor Robert Shuford and Mount Zion Missionary Church Crenshaw

SnoBiz Wetumpka

Elmore County Civic Improvement League

Simple Men (SSC)

Mahogany Chapter 002

Larry Bozeman

Carmen Bowman