Empowerment Academy helps kids start school with new backpacks

Hundreds of students will start the school year with a new backpack thanks to the Empowerment Academy.

An event held today at Kealing Middle School was aimed at homeless students and their families in the Austin Independent School District.

The attendants were able to learn about resources in the community and students who came out enjoyed a Chick-fil-A lunch, received a voucher for a free haircut and a backpack filled with school supplies.

The event helps prepare students for the year ahead.

Next Saturday (8/12) AISD will host its annual Back to School Bash and Safety Fair at the Palmer Events Center.

More than 100 community organizers will be there educating families on how to keep kids safe during the school year.

Students can also get a free health screening and haircut along with a backpack full of supplies.