SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – More than 500 colorful backpacks were loaded with school supplies for students on Sunday as part of a back-to-school giveaway. The event also featured free food and haircuts.
The raffle featured music and bouncy houses for the students to celebrate the end of summer. The Sarasota Police Department partnered in this event to be a part of the community they protect and serve every day, according to Melanie Thomas, the founder of Greatness Beyond Measure.
“There are some organizations, some people, some people who care about us,” Thomas said. “Our mission at Greatness Beyond Measure is empowerment for life. Believe it, achieve it, ignite a genius.”
Students who attended the event also learned about virtual reality and were able to use a virtual reality headset. According to Thomas, students need opportunities to learn about new developments that could turn into future jobs.
“Our young people need to be on the cutting edge of what’s going on and know not only about it, but how to operate it,” Thomas said.
The same event will take place next weekend in Palmetto with another 500 backpacks being given away. This location will be partnered with the Palmetto Police Department.
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