Will County Gazette

As the new school year approaches, the Park Forest-Richton Park Neighborhood Network (PRNN) is organizing a free school supply giveaway for families in the south suburbs. The event, "Packs the Bag," will occur on Saturday, August 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the PRNN Resource Center located at 200 Main St., Park Forest.

Students of all ages residing in Park Forest and Richton Park can receive supplies, with proof of residency required. Cherise Williams, PRNN program organizer, emphasized the importance of providing essential school supplies to ensure every child feels prepared and confident for the first day of school.

Families interested in attending must RSVP in advance. Registration is available online or by scanning a QR code found on promotional materials. Supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while they last.

Williams highlighted that back-to-school shopping can be stressful for parents managing various expenses. This event aims to alleviate some of that burden and help students arrive ready to learn.

For further details, residents can contact 708-238-5020 ext. 106 or visit parkforestrichtonparknn.org.

"This is a celebration of our kids and our communities," said Williams. "We hope families will join us, pick up supplies, and know that they're not alone—we're in this together."