At first it was just a dream … but organizers firmed it up into an idea, which then turned in to an actual event. Coordinated by Margy Sawyer with a team of volunteers, the inaugural Escalon Presbyterian Church backpack and supplies giveaway was hosted at the church on First Street on Saturday, Aug. 6.

After deciding it was something they definitely wanted to do, the team behind the giveaway worked to collect 100 backpacks and fill them with needed supplies.

They were offered free, with elementary students receiving certain supplies in their backpacks, and different supplies placed in the backpacks for the middle school and high school students.

Along with the giveaway, the event also featured four different games for attendees to enjoy, hosted by the church congregation’s middle and high school youth. A balloon artist was also on hand and a free lunch of hot dogs, chips and drinks was provided as well.

Organizers said the goal was to give out 100 backpacks on the day; a total of 85 were distributed. The remaining backpacks will be taken to local schools for students as the new school year begins.

The giveaway was an outreach by the church, added organizers, helping families and meeting a local need. They also noted that this first-time event went pretty smoothly, but they already have some ideas on how they can make it better next year.