Community assembles to take part in Back 2 School Drive

VICKSBURG, Miss. (Vicksburg Daily News)–The fifth annual Back 2 School Drive amassed quite the turnout in Vicksburg on Saturday.

Community leaders, including Deputy Chief Troy Kimble and Sheriff Martin Pace, were in attendance for the event.

Troy Kimble speaks at the fifth annual Back 2 School Drive. (Photo by Marcus James)

“Education is so important. The backpacks, the items that are being given out here today are tools that you can use, but your mind is what needs to be in that classroom,” stated Pace, as he addressed the youth who were in attendance. “Listen to your teachers, listen to your parents, listen to your pastors. This is where your future is, right here and where it begins is in the home, in the church and in the schools,” he added.

The event, coordinated by Jeremi Meekins, serves to help strengthen the community’s youth socially, psychologically and spiritually.

“In order to be effective, children must be equipped with the proper tools and resources to navigate towards success and this event has proven to do just that. The year 2020 was a difficult year for us all as we experienced a pandemic like none other,” stated Meekins in a previous correspondence with VDN.

Back 2 School Drive 2021 (Photo by Marcus James)

Countless backpacks, supplies and other materials were given out to the community, helping ensure the youth have a good start to the upcoming school year.

Back 2 School drive (Photo by Marcus James)

“Proverbs 11:25 states, ‘Whoever brings blessings will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.’ Our hope is that our efforts towards pouring into the community will enhance our very village,” said Meekins.

We look forward to next year’s event and wish to convey sincere gratitude for the work Meekins and all those involved put into the event.