ATLANTA — The start of the new school year is coming on fast - in some cases around metro Atlanta, it's now only a couple weeks away.
With inflation taking its toll, back to school shopping is an even bigger burden for many families this year, as well.
Fortunately, several groups and organizations are holding events in the coming weeks that in some cases offer free supplies to help give you a lift as you get your student prepared to go back to school.
Here are some of those events going on around the metro over the next few weeks (Have an event? Email news@11alive.com with details):
Dome Atlanta & Atlanta Public Schools Back to School Celebration
- What it is: Atlanta Public Schools has partnered up with Dome Atlanta and the Vine City Civic Association to help get Westside Atlanta students prepared for the new school year. Students who attend the back-to-school event will receive free backpacks, school supplies and gift cards.
- When is it: Sunday, July 31, 2022, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Where is it: Dome Atlanta, 174 Northside Drive, Atlanta
Hosea Helps Annual Back To School Jamboree
- What it is: This is always one of the biggest back to school events around metro Atlanta every year. Hosea Helps will have book bags, school supplies, food boxes, fresh produce, water and more.
- When is it: Saturday, July 16, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Where is it: Georgia International Convention Center, 2000 Convention Center Concourse, College Park
East Point Back To School Bookbag Giveaway
- What it is: The City of East Point and East Point Police Department will be giving away bookbags with free school supplies, as well as having free smoothies and pizza on hand. Face paint, a bounce house and a photo booth will also be on hand.
- When is it: Sunday, July 17, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
- Where is it: Camp Creek Marketplace parking lot near Party City, 3628 Marketplace Blvd., East Point
Clayton County Back To School Bash
- What it is: This event is put on by Clayton County Senior Services, Faith Medical Services and the Clayton County Office of Youth Services. It features free school supplies as well as outdoor vendors, food trucks, games, a DJ.
- When is it: Saturday, July 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Where is it: Flint River Community Center, 153 Flint River Road, Riverdale
DeKalb County School District Back To School Rally
- What it is: The school district is welcoming families for a free event including school supplies, family resources, health screenings, testings, vaccinations and live entertainment.
- When is it: Saturday, July 23, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Where is it: R. Hallford Stadium, 3789 Memorial College Ave., Clarkston
Georgia NAACP & Dreamz Always Come True, Inc. Backpack and School Supply Giveaway
- What it is: Several groups will be coming together to give away backpacks and school supplies, along with free food and drinks, a bouncy house and live music.
- When is it: Sunday, July 24, noon
- Where is it: Northridge Shopping Center, 8335 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs
Clayton County Public Schools Back To School Bash
- What it is: No, you're not reading that wrong. There are two "Back to School Bash" events in Clayton County, on different weekends. This one is put on by the school system itself, and features a school supplies giveaway, music, food, games and more. This event requires registration, which you can do here.
- When is it: Saturday, July 30, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Where is it: Charles Drew High School, 6237 Garden Walk Blvd., Riverdale
Fulton County Sheriff's Office Back To School Bash
- What it is: The sheriff's office will be giving away free bookbags and school supplies. Games, food, health assessments, music and more will also be available, and K-9 Dawn from the sheriff's office will be on hand to greet guests.
- When is it: Saturday, July 23, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Where is it: Trammell Crow Park, 4980 Cascade Rd. SW, Atlanta
The Confess Project Back To School Block Party
- What it is: The Confess Project, which is a mental health awareness advocacy group servicing the Black community, will be offering free haircuts, school supplies backpacks and more.
- When is it: Sunday, July 31, 12 p.m.-5 p.m.
- Where is it: 320 Sunset Ave. NW, Atlanta
Sandy Springs Back To School Bash
- What it is: This event is hosted as a National Night Out event hosted by the Sandy Springs Police Department as well as the city's fire department and parks and rec service. It will feature carnival games, fire trucks, police cars, an inflatable obstacle course, balloon artist, DJ and more.
- When is it: Tuesday, Aug. 2, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
- Where is it: City Green at City Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs
Stockbridge Back to School Kick-Off Event
What is it: The event is hosted by the City of Stockbridge. They plan to give out free school supplies to students and teachers. Refreshments will be available, including free Italian Ice. It will feature a gaming bus and a 360-degree photo booth. Students must be with an adult.
When is it: Saturday, July 23, 2022, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where is it: Stockbridge Amphitheater, 4650 N Henry Blvd, Stockbridge, GA 30281