TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As students across the region get ready to head back to the classroom, communities in North Florida and South Georgia are rolling out back-to-school giveaways aimed at doing more than handing out free supplies.

Organizers say the events are designed to keep kids engaged, build confidence and help steer them away from trouble by connecting families with support before the first school bell rings.

Community groups have hosted back-to-school events that include backpacks and school supplies, along with clothing, mentors and other community resources.

At New Mount Zion AME Church, organizers say an upcoming community tailgate is intended to help families while showing children they have broad support.

“I really hope that people also are able to receive some things, you know, particularly people that need stuff for back to school and even young people that need haircuts and need their hair braided. I hope that we just are help to individuals,” said Michael Bell, Pastor of New Mount Zion AME Church.

Organizers say similar efforts have been underway throughout the summer, with law enforcement agencies across the region hosting youth camps, community events and back-to-school giveaways focused on building relationships with young people before they “find themselves going down the wrong path.”

Gerald Tookes, Media Director at New Mount Zion AME Church, said the goal is to start the school year with support that helps students feel encouraged.

“What better way to kind of kick off the beginning of school with giving of brand new school supplies, fresh haircut, new hairstyle, clothing as well, and just an overall atmosphere of being, feeling loved,” Tookes said.

Organizers say they hope that confidence leads to students making positive choices and eventually giving back to the same communities that supported them.

“When they’re kind of watching us as role models growing up and when they see that they’re being given something, hopefully that in turn is inspiring them to be able to do the same,” Tookes said.

New Mount Zion’s community back-to-school tailgate is set for Aug. 8 from 9 a.m. until noon. The event is free and open to anyone who wants to join.