Lipman Family Farms Hosts 11th Annual Backpack Giveaway

Free school supplies available to children in Immokalee and surrounding communities on Aug. 7

IMMOKALEE, Fl. – No family should have to worry about their children’s essential school supplies being a financial burden. Lipman Family Farms, America’s largest open-field tomato grower headquartered in Immokalee, FL, has opened doors for thousands of Immokalee-area children through their Annual Backpack Giveaway scheduled for Saturday, August 7. The event, now in its eleventh year, will be the biggest giveaway to-date thanks to generous donations from sponsors, vendors, and the local community.

This event will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at Immokalee High School, where Lipman will distribute thousands of backpacks full of school supplies, bikes, gift cards, haircuts and resources to children and their families to better prepare them for the school year ahead. The day will be filled with music, free food, face painting, games, and entertainment available to families in Collier and Lee County, where vaccines will also be available free of charge for attendees.

Having not been able to host an in-person event last year due to COVID-19, Lipman improvised by dropping off backpacks at each elementary and middle school of Immokalee. This year, Collier and surrounding counties displayed incredible support, raising over $60,000 at the 5K Run for Backpacks in April, which has been the largest amount raised thus far for this event. The proceeds generated this year will ensure every child in attendance at the Backpack Giveaway event will receive a backpack, eliminating the need for families to arrive early and form a line. Additionally, over 30 exhibits will be available to offer essential services and information to families in attendance, including The Immokalee Foundation.

“Over the years, Lipman Family Farms has been extraordinarily supportive of The Immokalee Foundation’s career-driven mission. It’s an honor to return to support this highly anticipated, joyful community event. Lipman and the Foundation share a time-honored commitment to the education of Immokalee’s youth alongside a deep respect for the people of Immokalee,” said Noemi Perez, President and CEO at The Immokalee Foundation.

Students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to collect their backpack and supplies. Call 239-657-4421 for answers to any questions about the event or to find out how to participate.