As students prepare to head back to the classroom, the Macon-Bibb County Recreation Department is helping families get ready for the new school year with its first Back-to-School Book Bag Giveaway at the Little Richard House Resource Center (416 Craft Street) on Saturday, August 1.

The event will take place from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and provide free book bags to students while connecting families with valuable community resources and services in one convenient location.

In addition to the giveaway, attendees will have the opportunity to visit with organizations offering educational resources, healthcare information, mental health services, and public safety programs. Organizations planning to participate include Central Georgia Technical College, Dr. Thomas Duval with literacy resources, the Middle Georgia Regional Library, L.H. Williams Elementary School, Atrium Health, First Choice Primary Care, Macon Volunteer Clinic, Macon Mental Health Matters, and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.

“This event is about more than handing out school supplies. It’s about making sure our families know about the resources available to help their children succeed throughout the school year,” said Recreation Director Robert Walker. “By bringing these organizations together in one place, we’re making it easier for families to access the support they need while celebrating the start of a new school year.”

While this is the first book bag giveaway hosted at the Little Richard House by the Recreation Department, it builds on its commitment to connecting residents with helpful services. Earlier this year, the department hosted a community resource fair at the Little Richard House that brought together local organizations to serve neighborhood families.

The event is fully funded by the Macon-Bibb County Recreation Department, with volunteers assisting from Friends of Little Richard House, the Pleasant Hill Neighborhood Organization, the Eric Foundation, Central High School Football, and community volunteer Peter Givins.

Families are encouraged to arrive early, as book bags will be available while supplies last.