By JUSTIN SMITH | The Selma Times-Journal

The start of the school year is right around the corner, and several local organizations are doing their part in assisting students and their families by donating school supplies.

The Mercy Group is hosting a back to school backpack giveaway on Aug. 12 at Selmont Community Church. The giveaway will kick off at 10 a.m. The group is still looking for sponsors to offer additional help. The cost for sponsorship is $20 per book bag.

“It is important to have these type of drives because so many children and families are suffering from financial hardship and need help,” Mercy Group founder Erica Maxwell-England said. “It is almost impossible for children to have a successful school year without their necessary school supplies. Many families have to choose between school supplies and basic necessities making things even more difficult for them.”

Saving the Southside and the New Peace Church family are partnering up for the first annual Prayer March and Stop the Violence Fun Day. It will take place on July 22 at 9 a.m. The march will start at Craig Field.

The fun day will start at noon at the vocational school in Selmont. There will be a softball tournament and a school supplies giveaway.

“So many kids feel that people do not understand them,” event organizer Melvin Hall said. “I feel it is important for us to show our appreciation for our kids and give them a positive role model to look up to. It’s important for them to understand that we are hardworking adults trying to better their lives.”

Mason thinks the fun day will give kids something to do before school gets back in and provide them with some much-needed school supplies. Everyone is encouraged to come out.

Orville Baptist Church will host its third annual book bag giveaway on July 22 from 9-10 a.m. Alabama Power Service Organization is hosting a back to school drive on July 27 at the Alabama Power Selma office beginning at noon. The child must be present to receive the bag.

All of the school supply drives are open to the public and anyone is welcome and encouraged to come out.