Group to donate thousands of school supplies at Columbus Civic Center

Amerigroup Community Care of Georgia plans to donate tens of thousands of school supplies to children across the state between July and August, and to kick off the series, they’re holding the third annual Back to School celebration at the Columbus Civic Center on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Every new school year presents financial challenges for families who have to struggle to pay for all the school supplies children need to get through the upcoming school year,” Amerigroup said in a news release. “On average, resources and supplies needed to prepare a child for the school year cost approximately $500 per child. This is not feasible for many low-income families across Georgia.”

Each child who attends the Columbus event will receive free back to school supplies, including back packs, notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, binders, paper and other essential items.

The event will also include a children’s area with a bounce house, photo booth, music, games, refreshments and information about vaccinations and school registration.

This story was originally published July 13, 2017 at 2:31 PM with the headline "Group to donate thousands of school supplies at Columbus Civic Center."