There are several back-to-school events planned for this weekend across Marion County, with most featuring free backpacks and school supplies, among other community resources and giveaways.
Here are a few of the locations that will host drives:
- First Baptist Weirsdale, located at 13725 SE 164th St, in Weirsdale, will host a Back to School Bash on Saturday, July 26, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All are invited to join in for a day of family fun, food, games, music, haircuts, clothes, and backpacks filled with school supplies. Each child must be present to ensure that they receive a backpack with supplies.
- The Marion County Children’s Alliance Back-to-School Bash will be this Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Friends Recycling Center (2350 NW 27 Ave., Ocala, 34475). No registration is required, there will also be SWAG bags with community resources for adults, and school supplies for kids, while supplies last. This event is drive-thru only, so those in attendance must be in a car to participate.
Additionally, a Back to School Community Giveback will take place on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. across six locations in Marion County:
- Main Location: College of Central Florida Klein Center (1542 SW 1st Ave, Ocala, 34471)
- Belleview High School (10400 SE 36 Ave., Belleview, 34420)
- Lake Weir High School (10351 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala, 34472)
- Heart of Florida Health Center (2553 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL 34470)
- Dunnellon Middle School (21005 Chestnut St., Dunnellon, 34431)
- Liberty Middle School (4773 SW 95 St., Ocala, 34476)
Registration for the community giveback event is required for each student from VPK through 12th grade. Students must use their MCPS student number or school location for private, homeschool, and special needs programs. Only one registration per student, per location. The registration link is now open and closes when the event reaches capacity. Each registered student will receive a backpack of their choice, with various sizes, colors, and styles available, along with a basic supply kit tailored to their grade level.