BBLM Supports Our Children in School

August 4, 2022 @ 3:00pm-7:00pm
Backpack Giveaway
Benicia City Park Gazebo

By Benicia Black Lives Matter, August 1, 2022

Equal access to education is high on the priority list for the Benicia Black Lives Matters (BBLM) team. Children who begin school unprepared often feel embarrassed or ashamed and may lack the confidence to ask for help, which frequently leads to underachievement. Some children may be teased by other students because they don’t have the resources they need for success, leading to further disengagement. Sadly, there are families in Benicia and the surrounding community who struggle every year to purchase school supplies for their children. BBLM is here to help.

On the afternoon of Thursday, August 4th, from 3 to 7pm at the City Park Gazebo along First and Military Streets, BBLM, along with several community partners, will be giving out backpacks and school supplies to any family who asks. This is our second year of sponsoring a Backpack Giveaway for the community, and we are excited to bring back this important event. The backpacks, donated by Ethnic Notions Bookstore and Gallery, will be equipped with writing and art supplies, paper, folders and other important items for elementary students. Backpacks and other supplies, such as binders and dividers will be available for middle school, high school, and adult students as supplies last. All items have been purchased with money donated by local businesses and caring individuals, many of whom are members of BBLM. There will also be a book in every backpack as provided by Benicia Reads, which is a cooperative endeavor of the Benicia Public Library and the Benicia School District.

All of our partners are equally committed to helping our students start the school year off right. Faith Food Fridays is endeavoring to provide a healthy and nutritious food giveaway, so that no one goes hungry. The Bike Mobile will be there to get bicycles ready to use as transportation to and from school while Solano Safe Routes to School will be giving away helmets and other safety equipment. The Omega Gents will be offering Mentoring Services, and Willie B. Atkins Scholars will have College Preparation materials. And the community will be welcomed with music by DJ Irrateation.

For more information, or if you would like to donate to this important cause, please reach out to BBLM through beniciablacklivesmatter@gmail.com. We also welcome you to drop off donated school supplies, particularly binders and/or dividers, at Ethnic Notions, 930 Marin St, Vallejo. Please call first for hours at 707-334-3060.