For Immediate Release: Northern Kentucky — Back to School Blessings will bring supplies, fresh produce from the Cincinnati Freestore Foodbank, prayer, and celebration to local families on Saturday, August 8, from 12PM to 2PM at First Baptist Church of Elsmere, 1007 Garvey Avenue, Elsmere, KY 41018. The event will offer free backpacks and school supplies while supplies last, gently used clothing, music and books from For Family By Family, 1N5 Mental Health Resources, produce through the Freestore Foodbank, Kona Ice, and a special student achievement celebration with Bobo the CHAMP!
Kentucky serves 634,424 public-school students, and 60.2% of public-school students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals, underscoring the importance of community support as families prepare for a new school year (Kentucky Department of Education [KDE], 2025).
“This is what community looks like,” said Erlanger Councilwoman Renee Wilson. “When families, churches, volunteers, and partners come together, students walk into the school year knowing they are seen, supported, and celebrated.”
“Every backpack, book, prayer, and fresh food blessing is a seed of hope,” said KY Colonel Deaconess Serena Owen. “Our children deserve faithful support, confidence, and a community cheering them on.”
US Marine Veteran Col. Deacon Larry Owen added, “Mission readiness begins at home. When we equip students with tools, encouragement, and prayer, we help prepare the next generation to learn and succeed.”
“Back to School Blessings is love in action,” said Northern Kentucky University student and Back to School Blessings visionary Commonwealth Ambassador Destiny Owen. “My prayer is that every student leaves knowing their future is bright, their community believes in them, and God has a purpose for their life.”
Registration is required. (Please use the QR-code on the flier.) Vendors, businesses, organizations, and volunteers who support students are welcome to participate. Supplies are available while they last. Many thanks to First Baptist Church of Elsmere, the Freestore Foodbank, Wilson Wreaths & More, Randall Daniels and Bobo the CHAMP, For Family By Family, 1N5, Kona Ice, and Community Heroes volunteers and donors!
Scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11
Back-to-School Blessing: May every student, family, and school hero begin this year covered in peace, protected in purpose, strengthened with wisdom, and surrounded by love and support. May this school year be filled with love, learning, safety, friendship, courage, and favor. Amen.
Reference
Kentucky Department of Education. (2025). Kentucky education facts. https://www.education.ky.gov/comm/edfacts
