Gainesville Housing Authority to host Annual Back to School BBQ this Saturday

Press release from Gainesville Housing Authority

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Gainesville Housing Authority (GHA) will host its annual Back to School BBQ on Saturday, Aug. 8, to welcome and prepare for the upcoming school year alongside local families with free BBQ, refreshments, self-care and hygiene items, games, activities, and prizes. The first 100 students will receive backpacks filled with school supplies.

WHEN: Saturday, August 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: Pine Meadows Community, 2626 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32641

WHO: Free and Open to All

“Caring for our families and preparing our children for a successful school year takes the support of the entire community,” said CEO Pamela E. Davis, Gainesville Housing Authority. “This event is more than providing backpacks and school supplies, it is about investing in the potential of every student and ensuring families have the resources and support they need to start the school year with confidence.”

GHA will also celebrate the NSPIRE inspection results with the community at the Back to School BBQ, proudly scoring a 92. The NSPIRE Scoring System is HUD’s standardized method for assessing the physical condition of housing units, prioritizing resident safety. Residents are a critical component of the inspection process, and this is the first inspection for GHA resident properties since this model has been implemented.

The Back to School BBQ offers fun for all with bounce houses, music by DJ ELO, raffle prizes, and an assortment of games, including tug-o-war, sack races, cornhole, and other engaging family-friendly activities.

Gainesville Housing Authority is proud to partner with Dare to Be Different Youth Empowerment Organization for the third year, a partnership that has helped this event grow every year. Additional sponsors include Early Learning Coalition, Journey in the Garden, ProjectHER, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., TB Goods, and Strongminded Mentorship. Additional funding was provided by Rivers Warming Touch and Children’s Trust of Alachua County. GC Solutions and Michelle Dorlean are graciously providing volunteer services and prizes.