School supplies giveaway happening next week for Wilmington-area students

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Interdenominational Ministers’ Alliance will host its 11th annual school supplies giveaway for Wilmington-area public school students and teachers on August 16-17 at D.C. Virgo Preparatory Academy.

The event kicks off on Friday, August 16, with a Teacher Appreciation event from 3-6 p.m. at the academy on Nixon Street in downtown Wilmington. Teachers from local public schools are invited to attend, where they will receive free school supplies and enjoy food and entertainment.

On Saturday, August 17, families with children attending Wilmington-area public schools are invited to the academy from 12-3 p.m. for the student-focused giveaway.

During the event, children can pick up a free backpack filled with school supplies and participate in festivities, including live music provided by Bigg B, photos with UNCW’s mascot Sammy C. Hawk, and food trucks.

“This is WIMA’s 11th annual back-to-school event,” said Kristie Ford, project manager for WIMA. “Over the years, we’ve given out more than 15,000 bookbags to public school families, and last year we celebrated 300 public school teachers with a school supply giveaway at our Teacher Appreciation event. We are excited to partner with UNCW, D.C. Virgo, local companies, and faith-based organizations to support public school students and families as they embark on a new school year once again this year.”