The community turned out in force to take advantage of the Mayor’s Back to School Fest at NRG Park’s Yellow Lot on Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
This is the 11th annual give-away presented by Shell to help economically disadvantaged Houston-area elementary school students and their families prepare to return to school. Shell volunteers loaded family’s cars with backpacks filled with school supplies and boxes of food provide by the Houston Food Bank.
“There is still a critical need for assistance with basic school supplies, food, and personal protection equipment for students,” Mayor Turner said. “The focus is on our children so they can have a successful year. We are here to give them the tools they need, including vaccinations for students 12 and older.”
HISD Superintendent Millard House helped the mayor place backpacks and food boxes in cars, as well as greet students and their parents.
“The first day of school is around in the corner, and we are ready to welcome students back to class on Monday,” House said. “We woke up early this morning to ensure our families have the support they need, including school supplies and vaccinations. Just yesterday, we released our updated Ready, Set, Go! back-to-school plan, which outlines our efforts to have safety measures in place at campuses, classrooms, facilities, and buses to protect students and staff. We will be requiring the use of masks or face coverings for all individuals inside all HISD schools, buildings, and buses regardless of vaccination status.”
Harris County Public Health was onsite to administer COVID-19 vaccinations for anyone 12+. For additional vaccination opportunities please visit vacstrac.hctx.net.