As summer winds down, the Bay is stepping up. Two major back-to-school events are putting students first, with supplies, support, and the kind of community energy that reminds us why Oakland is always home.
Juan Toscano-Anderson's Backpack Giveaway on August 3 at Fremont High
Oakland’s own Juan Toscano-Anderson is once again giving back to the city that raised him. On Sunday, August 3 at 12 PM, the JTA Foundation will host a free Backpack Giveaway at Fremont High School. The goal is to help students start the school year feeling confident, prepared, and celebrated.
This isn’t just a school supply drop. It is a full community event. There will be food, music, haircuts, toys, soccer games, and more, thanks to an incredible lineup of local partners. All families are encouraged to attend. Come early, bring your people, and be part of something meaningful.
Oakland Roots Gives Back to OUSD Students with Free Tickets
Oakland Roots SC is launching a back-to-school campaign focused on student attendance and engagement. They are doing it in true Roots fashion: through community and culture.
Starting August 11, OUSD students who attend school every day for the first two weeks will earn a free ticket to the Roots' Back-to-School Night game on August 30. The match will be held at the Oakland Coliseum and will include a special drone show to celebrate the new school year.
This initiative is about more than sports. It is about showing students that when they show up, their city shows up for them. Teachers and school leaders can reach out to info@rootssc.com to make sure their students are included.
Oakland First, Always
From backpacks to stadium seats, these events reflect what makes Oakland powerful. Community that moves with purpose. Shoutout to Juan Toscano-Anderson, Oakland Roots, and every organization making sure students feel supported as they head back to class.
Let’s show up for each other and start the school year with pride and momentum. More details on each event below:
Photo: GettyImages.