Backpack Giveaway a success

PALMDALE – Hundreds of backpacks were distributed to children in need this past Saturday at an annual Backpack Giveaway and Fun Day in Palmdale.

“Our backpack event was a success,” said organizer Cynthia Beverly. “We gave away about 450 backpacks with school supplies, we had raffles and entertainment, the kids were eating hot dogs and having fun… it was a great day!”

The daylong event took place at Melville J. Courson Park in Palmdale and featured music and a barbecue in a family-reunion type setting.

Now in its third year, the Backpack Giveaway is organized and hosted by One Way Up, a local nonprofit organization that works with disadvantaged students in the Antelope Valley.

“It’s the same struggle year after year with the low income families, that’s why I try to help support them in any way I can,” Beverly said. “To some people, a backpack or pencil might not mean anything. But to the majority of families that I help, it means a whole lot.”

“I got a lot of smiles and hugs this year,” Beverly continued.

Donations for the annual backpack giveaway came from various local businesses and organizations, as well as residents.

“I came out to support the One Way Up backpack drive because I believe knowledge is power and education is very important,” said donor Veronica Fields. “The supplies I donated will help ensure that these children have the necessary tools they need to excel in school.”

Beverly said the event would not be possible without the help of its many contributors, including Fields, Juan Blanco, Waunette Cullors, Dr. Miguel Coronado, David Vierra, Jeffrey Moffat, Home Depot, Right Aid, Angel’s Bingo Hall, the Lancaster YMCA, Food 4 Less, Stater Brothers, Vons, Palmdale School District, First 5 LA, Alliance Insurance, Robertson Hyundai in Palmdale and the NAACP Antelope Valley.