Brownsville organizations team up to help students start the school year prepared
Save the Next Generation, Linking Our Hearts and Stop the War hosted a backpack giveaway for students of all ages.
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Several Brownsville organizations came together Saturday to make sure children head back to the classroom with the supplies they need to succeed.
Save the Next Generation, Linking Our Hearts and Stop the War hosted a backpack giveaway for students of all ages.
The event provided children with book bags filled with essential school supplies ahead of the first day of classes.
Organizers said the event was more than just backpacks and notebooks.
Community leaders used the gathering as an opportunity to connect with local youth and build relationships with families. The event also reinforced the importance of having a strong support system beyond the classroom.
"I was once the young kid that didn't have these resources," said Melquan Thawney, founder of Save the Next Generation. "And I know how much of a difference it would make in our community if we had people like us."
Organizers said their shared experiences help them relate to the young people they look to serve.
"We got to talk to the kids because they'll listen to us more than they'll listen to somebody else," said Quayshawn Smith. “We've been through the things that they are leaning into."
Organizers said their goal is to continue serving as a resource for local families and to expand events like this on a larger scale throughout the community.
