Organization helping families get ready for school

School starts in just a few weeks and hundreds of Austin families are getting the help they need to get their kids ready. The non profit, Manos De Cristo, is holding its back to school program at Allan Elementary beginning today and lasting through July 22. 

About 2,000 children are expected to pass through the doors and get all the supplies they need to start school.

The program prepares low income students for the school year by providing each child with two sets of new clothing, socks, underwear and a brand new backpack filled with school supplies.

Families in need begin lining up as early as 3 a.m. for the first come, first served back to school clothing and supplies.

Community volunteers help the children move through each day.

The average costs for must have supplies for elementary students totals nearly $650 and is beyond the reach of thousands of low-income working poor families in our area.

Manos De Cristo has been helping for nearly 20 years.

The event is at Allan Elementary at 4900 Gonzales Street. It runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 18-21 and 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on July 22 or while supplies last.

If you'd like more information you can go here.