Students form a line to receive their backpacks at King Joseph Recreation Center. 

Students ready to begin another year of school in Jeanerette were able to get their very own backpacks and school supplies at King Joseph Recreation Center Thursday evening as the Iberia Parish Recreation Department put on its annual Back 2 School Supply Drive.

The event used donations from the community to issue supplies for students needing to prepare for the new semester, and were also treated to food, games and a motivational speaker as well.

Organizer Terri Thompson said the drive helps empower the youth of the community by bringing the community together in support of Jeanerette students.

“(It’s about) investing in our children’s future,” Thompson said

Speakers included Evangelist Ivana Francois, Brother Anthony Lewis, Deputy Belle Ame, Dana Broussard, Luncinda Pierre, Debra Bouie, Chief Dusty Vallot and Willie Ward.

The event was sponsored by Iberia Parish Parks and Recreation, the City of Jeanerette, Mayor Carol Bourgeois Jr. Chief Dusty Vallot, Willie Ward, Army recruiter Jeremiah Thompson, UMCOR, Lucinda Pierre, Jeanerette Sugar City Ceramic Club, Elizabeth Moten, Derrick Wells, Tavoris Marks, Torrie Lumpkin, Russell Tyler, Cynthia Rener, Debra Bouie and Terri Thompson. John Boudreau and Leroy Jones with Iberia Parks and Recreation also sponsored the event.