On August 16, RISD teamed up with a host of sponsors, led by the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park, Network of Community Ministries, The Heights Baptist Church and more than 20 RISD community partners, to create a multi-layered partnership for the Second Annual Back-to-School Rally. The Rally, dedicated to providing necessary school supplies and services for families in need, set a goal of serving 4,300 students and their families.

With dozens of businesses and civic groups generously working with Rally organizers, thousands of backpacks, books, supplies, immunizations, counseling and information services were provided free of charge. Along with getting all the supplies they'll need for the first day of school, the kids were able to enjoy six bounce houses, face painting, popcorn and balloons. The number of children able to be served this year tripled from last year.

First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park Pastor Anthony Foster was very pleased with the event. "We've been planning this for about 10 months and will start planning next year’s event very quickly. Our volunteers will probably have caucuses tonight! That's the best thing about our church: To be able to do it, to review it, and to do it again. Everyone is so excited to work together in concert to make this a blessed event."

Network of Community Ministries Coordinator of Emergency Services Amber Stewart was pleased her organization could take part. “This event aligns perfectly with the Network’s mission of empowering our neighbors in need as they seek an improved quality of life, and is a great example of how resources donated to us are delivered to those who can benefit most.”

Richard Covington, Community Minister at The Heights Baptist Church agreed. “The Heights is thankful and excited to be a part of this effort to help our less fortunate neighbors,” he said. “We appreciate our members really stepping up to donate resources that help make the school year better for so many families.”

Celina Cardenas, RISD's Community Relations Coordinator, was thrilled with the participation. "This is a true community partnership. Being able to provide everything some of our children and families in the district need for the start of school is truly great, and helps them enter the year with confidence and ready to learn. It's because of our many generous partners that this is able to happen - they are the ones who make it possible for us to help our kids."

For a complete list of our Second Annual Back-to-School Rally partners, please click here.