HOUSTON – Just days before the first bell rings across Houston schools, two local sorority chapters are helping students head back to class feeling confident, prepared, and freshly lined up — all at their annual Back to School Supply Distribution
This Saturday, Aug. 9, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Xi Alpha Omega Chapter and Sigma Theta Chapter, in partnership with the Ivy League Educational & Charities Foundation, are marking 30 years of giving back, and they’re doing it with more than just pencils and paper.
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Be’Atrice Randall, Xi Alpha Omega’s First Vice President and Program Chairman, called the event a one-stop shop “to help families be prepared for the start of school.”
So when and where is this happening?
The event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center
Here’s what families can expect FREE this year:
- Kids’ clothing (both new and gently used)
- Computers (for eligible families)
- Lunches for children
- Backpacks
- School Supplies
- Hair cuts
- Face paintings
“The 30-year milestone is a powerful reflection of our chapter’s unwavering commitment to service and educational equity,” said Amie T. Francis, President of Xi Alpha Omega Chapter. “It’s about planting seeds of hope, confidence, and opportunity in the lives of students and families.”
The president noted that last year, the event distributed 400 backpacks filled with school supplies — but this year, they’re expanding efforts to meet broader needs like clothing, technology access, and nourishment.
Families can also experience:
- Dental and vision screenings
- Voter registration services
- A visit to the Astros Literacy Bus
- Giveaways and kid-friendly activities
“This year is more powerful because we’re creating a full circle of experiences to uplift, empower, and prepare families for a successful school year,” Francis said.
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The impact of the event also extends beyond school prep.
“Preparing for school is a financial hardship for some of our families we serve,” said Dr. Shawn E. Simmons, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s South Central Regional Director. “We want to help alleviate that by providing school supplies and giving families room to focus on other priorities.”
That support is strengthened through partnerships with organizations like Compudopt and Kids Meals.
“These collaborations help us offer holistic, wraparound services that promote stability in the community,” said Karen Baker Sonier, president of the Ivy League Educational & Charities Foundation. “From bridging the digital divide to addressing food insecurity, we’re committed to helping beyond the classroom.”
Families are encouraged to pre-register here.