Durham community comes together to provide 750 bookbags for students

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Durham Police Department joined volunteers in a backpack giveaway on Saturday, offering a police escort as hundreds of bookbags were distributed across several neighborhoods.

The event, hosted by the 5K Foundation, aimed to support families ahead of the new school year. Volunteers delivered supplies door-to-door, and Wool E. Bull of the Durham Bulls met with children during the effort.

The nonprofit says its mission is to empower youth while working to reduce gun and gang violence.

The giveaway comes as city leaders continue shaping Durham's new gun violence strategy. Officials have also proposed a youth summit focused on reducing gun violence among children and teens, with funding still to be secured.

Duke basketball point guard Deron Rippey Jr. donated 100 bookbags himself, calling the cause personal.

"Just being able to get back to community, to give them hope, inspiration, and just make sure to head in the right direction - that's something I really value," Rippey Jr. said. "Growing up, I can relate to a lot of these kids and their environment."

Rippey said he connected with many of the children he met Saturday.

Chris Kenan of the 5K Foundation said the group's goal is to meet families where they are.

"The mission is to provide essential resources for families in underserved communities. Here we are. And so we're bringing them right to your front door," Kenan said.

About 750 bookbags were given away, marking the fifth year the foundation has held the event.

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