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The start of the new school year is right around the corner and once again the Willie Carter Outreach Center is stepping up to help students in Port Arthur Independent School District.

The 24^th Annual Backpack Giveaway is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 3 at the Carl Parker Multi-Purpose Center, 1800 Lakeshore Drive.

Johnny Hulin, executive director, said they would have enough backpacks and supplies for a minimum of 1,200 children.

Hulin has the help of 12 other agencies including civic and social clubs and the Port Arthur Health Department. The groups will be at tables handing out supplies and information on services that are available for parents as well as youth in the area.

Every child that shows up will receive a free backpack with school supplies and New Beginnings Ministry will return again this year to distribute new underwear and socks. Each of the packets they distribute will have three pairs of each, Hulin said.

Corporate sponsors will be on hand to give each person a lunch including chips, cookie and drink.

Parents and students need to be present to receive the supplies.

Children too young for school that accompany parents will receive something as well.

“We find a lot of times the parent has to bring the younger children with them so we give them supplies,” Hulin said. “They have a special coloring book for the small children so they can walk around and be like their big sister or brother and have something in hand.”

Hulin began the City-Wide Youth explosion backpack giveaway in 2000 and assisted 50 kids. He now averages 1,200 to 1,500, he said.

The Willie Carter Outreach Center’s primary mission is to help individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders get back into society.

Volunteers from the recovery community help prepare the backpacks and are part of the volunteer force giving back to the community.