Riverside students stand in line to receive free backpacks and school materials. The items were provided by the Raincross Boxing Academy, a local non-profit in Eastside.
To support the growing need for back-to-school supplies, The Raincross Boxing Academy (RBA) provided backpacks and other assorted materials to Riverside grade-school students who attended its local event.
On Aug. 28, RBA provided 33 backpacks and sandwiches, with the collective effort of its staff and local volunteers, to local students ranging from elementary to high school. The sandwiches, which were provided by My Hero Subs, were also given the children’s families.
“With school opening in-person, we knew how important it was that the kids have the school supplies they need, along with some sustenance. We partnered with [My Hero Subs] and gathered some backpacks as soon as we possibly could,” Emani Shelton, RBA’s outreach coordinator, said.
RBA is a local non-profit that has served Riverside’s Eastside community, a predominantly Latinx and Black neighborhood, since 2014. It has specifically provided opportunities to underprivileged and at-risk youth.
Shelton deemed the Saturday event a success, saying there was a lot of  high energy and optimism to continue serving the community.
“[The event went] wonderfully! Despite the heat and humidity, 12 [staff and volunteers] devoted their time and energy to give back,” she said.
RBA plans to continue with more supply distribution events to help more students in the future.
To get involved and support future efforts visit their website.
Work continues on the general fund and biennial budgets, a grant can help pay for a new RPD service dog, and the Board of Ethics considers amending its current code.
Funds raised for the event will support Riverside Public Library programs and resources. RPLF President said the goal is to celebrate the mission of supporting lifelong learning and creating a resilient Riverside.
