JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hundreds of Jacksonville students received free school uniforms Saturday as local organizers worked to help families cut back on school-related expenses.
More than 500 students and family members attended the uniform giveaway, according to organizers.
Families with students attending Raines High School, Ribault Middle and High schools, Andrew Jackson High School and Lake Shore Middle School were among those invited to pick up clothing.
For parent Lasheba Granger, the timing of the giveaway was especially helpful.
“I got a text message to my phone about a uniform giveaway by Mr. Gaffney,” Granger said. “I had just got off of work, and I made sure I came up here as soon as possible.”
Granger said she was relieved when she learned about the event because of how quickly the cost of school clothing can add up.
“Uniforms do cost a lot of money, so any help is good,” she said.
Organizers Reginald Gaffney Sr. and Jacksonville City Council member Reggie Gaffney Jr. said the goal was to bring several schools together while helping students and families who may need additional support.
“It was great to bring all the schools together to be able to provide for students in need, to give back to the community,” Gaffney Jr. said. “It’s a blessing. It’s a lot of families and a lot of kids in need, especially around this time of year, especially with the holidays coming up.”
Parents were able to look through shirts, pants, jackets and other school clothing and take home the items they needed at no cost.
For parent Rae Barkley, the giveaway meant having one less expense to worry about.
“It was just a great thing, giving us the opportunity to come out and get these for our kids, you know, saving us money, and I’m glad they looking out for us,” Barkley said.
Granger said events like the giveaway can make a difference for parents trying to make sure their children have what they need for school.
“You want them to look good and feel good when they go to school,” she said.
Organizers said they plan to distribute additional uniforms to other schools at a later date.
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