Kids can get free backpacks, school supplies Friday at back-to-school event in Durham

The Durham Rescue Mission is getting ready for its annual back-to-school party.

The event helps families get school supplies and other important items to get kids ready to go back to school.

This event helps set students up for success.

In a few hours, the Durham Rescue Mission’s Center of Hope will be packed with children and families who are in need during this back-to-school season.

Data shows that prices for school supplies like pencils have jumped more than 23% in the past four years – making it difficult for some families to afford what their kids need.

Students who come to Friday's event will receive a free backpack filled with every school supply you can imagine – pencils, pens, paper and notebooks.

They will also get a $25 gift card to the rescue mission’s thrift store for back-to-school clothes.

The President and CEO of the Durham Rescue Mission, Rob Tart, said the number of children who come to their giveaway has increased each year since the Covid-19 pandemic.

"It's hard to fill up a tank of gas right now and go to the grocery store," Tart said. "And then your kid needs all these things for school."

He said the event is meant to help those in the community that are struggling, whether that's a single mom or a family in need.

If you or someone you know has a child that needs school supplies, you can come to Friday's event that starts at 10 a.m.

This isn’t just a giveaway. It’s a party! There will be hot dogs, hamburgers, prizes and other activities to help kids kickoff the school year with some fun.