Lancaster hosts annual back-to-school giveaway

Lancaster is celebrating the back-to-school season with a citywide Backpack Giveaway on Aug. 3. This opportunity for families is back for its second year as staff and volunteers will distribute backpacks at various hubs throughout the city. Each hub will be hosted by a partner organization and will host a variety of fun and unique activities.
“As we gear up for another exciting school year, we are thrilled to bring back the citywide Backpack Giveaway, an event that reflects Lancaster’s unwavering commitment to supporting our students and families,” said Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris. “This giveaway is more than just backpacks – it’s about fostering community connections, ensuring our children have the tools they need to succeed, and promoting their health and well-being. We invite all families to join us for a day of fun, resources, and a celebration of learning.”
In addition to free backpacks, the hubs at Sol Plaza and Park View Educational Complex will host an immunization station where students can receive their back-to-school immunizations. Children must be VFC-eligible (Medi-Cal eligible, uninsured, not insured, or American Indian/Native American), and a parent or guardian must be present on-site to sign medical consent for any child getting vaccinated. Select backpack hubs will offer additional health services, including health and dental screenings, mental health assessments, and car seat workshops.
The upcoming backpack giveaway is made possible by several event sponsors, including Antelope Valley College MESA, Blue Shield of California Promise Plan, First 5 LA, Edwards Federal Credit Union, and Kaiser Permanente.