Even hot and humid weather conditions Saturday couldn’t stop people from flocking to City Park for the annual Back to School Bash, which was organized by the Spalding Collaborative Healthy Youth and Youth Advisory committees.

As in previous years, the event provided local families with free school supplies and resources, while giving away food and clothes at no cost, as well.

“The purpose (of the Back-to-School Bash) is to get kids excited for the coming school year and let them know the whole community stands behind them,” said Kelly Leger, co-chairperson of the Healthy Youth Committee.

“The whole idea is giving back to the community in these economic times,” said Eagle’s Way Church Executive Pastor Will Doss, who was part of the team that set the stage for the Back-to-School Bash, which is now in its twelfth year.

After receiving some donations, the Spalding Collaborative purchased school supplies worth about $4,000 and was able to give out 1,500 cloth backpacks filled with rulers, folders and other essential supplies.

“It helps tremendously,” said Amanda Brayton, a single mother who appreciated the benefits of the event for her children. “When you are a single parent, this is a winner.”

Aside from assisting parents with school supplies for their children, the event Saturday offered a variety of fun, such as a karate demonstration by Championship Martial Arts, live music and inflatables.

For the Back-to-School Bash to be possible, a number of groups and organizations came together, among them the Spalding County Parks and Recreation Department, the Griffin-Spalding County School System, the Salvation Army’s Boys and Girls Club and the Spalding County Health Department.

“It was a collaborative effort,” said Doss.