Five Chattanooga-area Rotary clubs are joining forces for the first time to distribute backpacks filled with school supplies during the Oak Grove Backpack Bash on Saturday, July 25 at the pavilion and playground at Eastside Elementary School, 1603 Lyerly St. in Chattanooga.

Rotary volunteers will begin distributing the backpacks filled with school supplies from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Distribution is first-come, first-served until supplies run out. Food & drinks provided. 

"Come celebrate, connect and get ready for a great year," organizers said. 

The community celebration is hosted by Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise (CNE).

The backpacks and school supplies were donated by local Rotary clubs: Rotary Rocks Chattanooga, Chattanooga Rotaract Club, Nooga Nights Rotary Club, Chattanooga Breakfast Rotary Club and Hamilton Place Rotary Club

“One backpack may seem like a small gift, but for a child, it can represent confidence, opportunity and a fresh start. Collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to serving our community and investing in the success of Chattanooga’s children,” said Rotary Rocks Chattanooga’s Founder and President Jane Hampton Bowen.

“Rotary has always believed in 'Service Above Self,' and this partnership with Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise allows us to put that principle into action in a meaningful way," said Rotary organizers. "Together, we’re not just providing school supplies - this collaboration is proof that when organizations unite, we can accomplish far more together than any one of us could alone.”