Credits: ABC 13
As the 2024-2025 school year approaches, Houston is gearing up to support students and parents with the upcoming Mayor’s Back 2 School Fest Presented by Shell. Mayor John Whitmire will announce details of the event at a press conference at 10 a.m. Tuesday, highlighting expanded efforts to aid economically disadvantaged elementary students in the area.
The annual event, a collaboration between the City of Houston and Shell, traditionally provides students with backpacks and school supplies. This year, the initiative will be bolstered with additional services. Mayor Whitmire will be joined by Christina Jones, Shell USA’s Vice President of Human Resources, Amy Ragan, Executive Gifts Officer at the Houston Food Bank, and Susan Christian from the Mayor’s Office of Special Events.
In addition to distributing 25,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, the 2024 festival will include on-site health screenings, such as dental check-ups and sealants, vision exams, and routine immunizations. The event aims to connect families with various health and social services provided by community agencies, addressing ongoing needs for basic school supplies and health support for Houston students.
This year’s expanded offerings reflect a broader commitment to supporting students’ educational and health needs as they return to school.