Former Florida State University and NFL fullback James Coleman helped hundreds of Central Florida students get ready for the new school year Saturday with a backpack and school-supply giveaway in Orlando.
The event at West Oaks Elementary School included more than 300 backpacks filled with notebooks, pens, crayons, glue and other classroom essentials.
Coleman said each backpack contained about $40 to $50 worth of supplies.
“It doesn’t sound like a lot, but when you’re kind of stressed on times, that $40 to $50 comes a long way,” Coleman said.
For parents buying supplies for several children, the savings can quickly add up.
Thelma Tong attended the giveaway with her daughters and said preparing four children for school can be difficult and expensive.
“I appreciate it very much,” Tong said. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to make it out here.”
Coleman estimated a family receiving four backpacks could save about $200.
He said higher everyday costs are affecting families across the community, including people who may appear financially comfortable.
“The reality is, I make good money and I feel it,” Coleman said. “So I know other people must feel it as well.”
The giveaway was part of Coleman’s seventh annual Community Giveback Week.
Coleman said the event is meant not only to provide supplies, but also to show students that people in their community are invested in their success.