By: Yasmine Malone | July 20, 2026
Clarksdale, Mississippi– A coalition of local community-based organizations and volunteers came together on July 18 to provide backpacks, school supplies, food, and family-friendly activities to more than 200 children and their families during the annual School Supply Giveaway at the Clarksdale Expo Center.
The event, which has become a summer tradition in Clarksdale, reflects what organizers describe as a true grassroots effort—neighbors, civic organizations, and local businesses working together to invest in the next generation.
The giveaway was made possible through the collective efforts of Skimkes Youth Empowerment and Outreach (SYEO), J. Dobbins Council No. 9, Star of Bethlehem No. 57, Goodwill Lodge No. 121, and Skimkes Smokin’ and Grillin’ LLC, whose partnership has helped the event expand year after year.
What began as a small community outreach at Skimkes Smokin’ and Grillin’ LLC in 2015 has steadily grown into one of the area’s premier annual back-to-school initiatives, serving hundreds of families each summer.
“This started as a way to simply give back,” organizer Kimberly Eckles said. “Over the years, we’ve watched it grow because of the support from our community and the organizations that continue to come together to make it happen.”
Children ages 5 to 13 received free backpacks filled with school supplies to help them begin the new school year prepared for success. Throughout the afternoon, families also enjoyed bounce houses, music, dancing, free bags of candy, Philly ice, grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks, and door prizes for parents.
Beyond providing school essentials, organizers said the event also serves as an opportunity to strengthen community relationships and demonstrate what can be accomplished when local organizations unite around a common purpose.
“We thank God for the participation and for allowing us the opportunity to give back to the community that has done so much for us,” organizers said. “Seeing families come together and knowing we’re helping children start the school year on the right foot makes all the work worthwhile.”
As attendance continues to grow, organizers hope the event will remain a testament to the power of grassroots collaboration, with local civic organizations, businesses, and volunteers working side by side to ensure Clarksdale’s children have the resources and encouragement they need to succeed.
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