JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
The city of Jackson is also preparing youngsters to go back to school with the third annual back to school pep rally and celebration.
Thousands waited in 90 degree temperatures outside the Jackson Convention Center for the event to begin. Bands entertained the crowds, then folks were allowed inside. Displays about health and education were set up for parents and students. Donors and sponsors raised money to give away school supplies. No city funds were used to host the event. It is a part of the mayor's youth initiative.
"Four notebooks, four packs of paper, I don't know how many pencils, scissors, as well as rulers. Things that are on the school list that we have received so far as well as a book bag. So you can't beat that," said Paulette Christoff, JPS Parent.
"We wanted to provide them with the basics to help them with pens, pencils make sure they have some of the necessities that they need and be able to inform them about some of the after school programs, health and wellness, staying fit , all of those things that make a healthy body and a healthy mind," added Bridget Townsend, with the Mayor's Youth Initiative.
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