MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Students, parents, and community members in Southeast Shelby County came out for a back-to-school giveaway.

“This even came together because we pass out a survey and people want to see more activity, they also want to get more connected with more resources,” said Program Manager Arriell Gipson-Martin, Shelby Co. Division of Community Services.

Outside of resources, the Shelby Co. Division of Community Services, along with co-hosts Building Blocks, sent families home with school supplies as well.

“It’s good to see them out here having a good time, good competition, good food and I feel safe.”

 “Many people can’t afford school supplies, so giving stuff for the community is pretty good,” said Illan Flyynn, incoming 6th grader.

Flynn said that she is trying to master her science test for TCAP to get into CLIP, a STEM-related field.

State lawmakers and school board members came out to support the event.

“You’re going to, for me as a representative, you’re going to see really more engagement with the community, learning about policies, updating policies, just being a voice and an advocate for the people,”  said School Board Member Tamarques Porter, District 4.

“The goal is to move our city forward and our district forward, so I think we can do that if we promote things like this,” said State Senator London Lamar, District 33.

Click here for a list of back-to-school giveaway events.