Dunedin families stretching their back-to-school budgets have a shot at free backpacks and supplies Thursday. The city is guaranteeing backpacks for the first 200 school-aged children at its Back to School Bash.
The free event runs from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. at the MLK Jr. Recreation Center, 550 Laura Lane, Dunedin. The first day of school for all Pinellas County Schools students is Aug. 11, according to the district's 2026-2027 student calendar.
Free food, face painting and more
Beyond the backpack giveaway, the city is bringing in local exhibitors with information on before- and after-school programs, health and wellness resources, safety, and extracurricular activities and sports, according to the event listing. Kids can also enjoy hands-on activities, games, face painting, inflatables, and food including hot dogs and barbecue.
Why the 200-backpack cap matters
About two-thirds of Pinellas County Schools students qualify as economically disadvantaged, according to the Pinellas Education Foundation. The 200-backpack cap means families who want supplies should plan to arrive at or before the 6:15 p.m. start. The city has not published details on what specific supplies are included in each backpack.
Missed it? More drives are coming
Families who miss Thursday's event or want to donate have additional options in the days that follow:
- Friday: The Pinellas Education Foundation hosts a Tampa Bay School Supply Drive drop-off from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at its Largo office, 12090 Starkey Road.
- Saturday: A second drop-off, hosted by the Tampa Bay Rowdies, runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at 230 1st St. SE, St. Petersburg.
- Aug. 8: A free Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway and Block Party runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Skycrest United Methodist Church, 2045 Drew St., Clearwater. Contact: [email protected] or 727-543-5629.
