MIAMI — As students across South Florida prepare for the start of the 2025 school year, grassroots organizations and community leaders are stepping in to make sure no child is left behind.
In Fort Lauderdale, the nonprofit Team of Life hosted a back-to-school giveaway Saturday, providing children with backpacks, supplies, and support — free of charge.
“We got the book bags, we got everything the kids need,” said Essie “Big Mama” Reid, founder of the organization.
Reid, a longtime community leader, organized the event in the 2200 block of Northwest Eighth Street, drawing dozens of families.
“I can’t miss it. You all are the big kickoff for Team of Life,” she said to the crowd.
The event aimed to ease the financial strain many parents face as school approaches.
“We want to be able to help my parents to make sure our kids are clean and have their school supplies — whatever we can do to help,” Big Mama said.
Among those in attendance was Patricia Christian, a mother of five who recently lost her home in a fire.
“It’s a big help. She does everything she can. It’s awesome,” Christian said.
“This is the biggest help you can get. If you’re not here, then get here. This is the biggest help you can get.”
Meanwhile, in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, hundreds of families gathered as the nonprofit Amigos for Kids distributed backpacks, shoes, and other essentials.
“A lot of parents struggle, especially now, how the economy is and stuff,” said Stephanie Alvarez, a mother who attended the event.
“It’s difficult, you know, but I think with the community always coming together, they help us out,” she added.
In Hollywood, Memorial Primary Care provided free school physicals alongside a supply giveaway, continuing its effort to serve underserved families in the region.
“We always —— we’re gonna make sure we can,” said Adara Adams, director of community services for Memorial Primary Care.
Also in Miami, hundreds of families lined up early Saturday morning at The Caring Place, part of the Miami Rescue Mission, to receive back-to-school supplies.
The annual event, run by a team of volunteers, distributed backpacks filled with sneakers, T-shirts, and hygiene kits to make sure children are ready for the new school year.
“It means a lot to help the community,” said Tony Villasuso, president of The Caring Place.
More than 2,000 children and over 400 families were supported at the giveaway, including Marie, who arrived with her daughter Ayanna after waiting since 6 a.m.
“It’s been a hard year. I lost my job,” Marie said, reflecting on her family’s recent struggles. “I’m so thankful,” she added.
Organizers say the event is not just about school supplies — it’s about bringing relief, hope, and joy to families facing difficult times.
Back inside the event, Ayanna was seen smiling as she opened her new backpack — a moment her mother called “heartwarming.”
As inflation and housing costs continue to impact working families across South Florida, community groups are proving that a collective effort can make a difference.
“It takes a village,” Reid said —offering not just supplies, but a message of unity and hope. “I love you all.”
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