From staff reports

A group called Friends of the Community is gearing up to pass out 500 backpacks filled with school supplies.

The group is seeking donations to help pay for the “back to school” event, which lasts from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 14 on Lafayette Square in downtown LaGrange. It also includes music, moonwalks, balloons, vendors and drawings for free shoes.

“Community and business supporters can participate at no cost,” coordinator Denise Mosley said. “However, we do ask that a donation of backpacks and school supplies be contributed to the cause.”

Tickets for the backpacks will be distributed at 10 a.m. and may be redeemed beginning at 11 a.m.

“Friends of the Community encourages others to get involved to make this unique but well-needed outreach and ‘back to school bash’ a yearly event,” Mosley said. “Getting involved in meeting the needs and solving important challenges a little at a time through efforts like these is what makes communities stronger.”

Individuals and organizations interested in assisting may contact Mosley at dmosley 4173@hotmail.com or (706) 350-3606 by Aug. 14.