Back to school giveaways, resource fairs and shopping happening around the Delaware Valley
CHESTER, Pa. (WPVI) -- Back to school means new teachers, new lessons and for kids in Chester City, it means new backpacks.
The International People's Storehouse and the Chester-Upland School District joined forces for the largest back to school resource fair in the city.
More than 4,000 backpacks were collected and donated for distribution, families also were provided free food.
Free haircuts were also available to students and an appearance from former Eagles player, Rodney McLeod.
"In Chester, because we know there are depleted resources in the community. It's an opportunity for students and families to get what they need," said Interim Superintendent for the district, Khalid Sutton.
Back-to-school shopping is expensive.
Experts say the average family is spending more than 600 dollars this year, per child.
At DTLR on Aramingo Avenue in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, they're hoping to make things a little easier.
They've partnered with New Balance to help kids get outfitted right with free custom shoe designs, custom lunch boxes, socks and accessories.
"Kids can pick a shoe off the wall and pretty much I customize it for them in real time," said Baker 'Shoebaker' Bezalel, a Sneaker artist for DTLR. "Makes kids feel better about what they're wearing. It's one of one. They get to take something from the store to the school that none of their friends even have."
For students around the Delaware Valley, it's the countdown to get everything they need.
"I just have to get lots of new outfits," said Breanna Kinkaid. "Almost done."
The first day of school for the School District of Philadelphia is Monday, August 24th.
