Here's where to get free school supplies and backpacks in the Montgomery area

A plethora of back-to-school events are aimed at helping Montgomery families get their kids school supplies.

Montgomery Public Schools will resume classes Aug. 8. Students need to be prepared with school supplies, and several Montgomery organizations have stepped in to help.

City of Montgomery giveaway

• Where: Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, 1037 Pelham St.
• Details: The city of Montgomery's Parks and Recreation department is partnering with several area organizations to put on a giveaway at the zoo. The event will feature inflatables, free food, vendors, a gaming truck, games, prizes, a bike raffle and free school supplies. Children must be present to get school supplies.

More: School Start DatesWhen does your school start? Check here to see.

Montgomery Public Schools giveaway

• When: 3 to 6 p.m. Aug. 3
• Where: Garrett Coliseum, 1555 Federal Drive
• Details: The event will include games, learning stations and school supply giveaways. The district has also advertised a special guest appearance.

The Blueheart Foundation 334

• When: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 29
• Where: Eastdale Mall
• Details: For the sixth year, the Blueheart Foundation 334 will hold a back-to-school giveaway, providing students with free supplies.

Verizon

• When: 1 p.m. July 28
• Where: 431 Gilmer Ave. in Tallassee; 949 Market Place Unit 14 in Alexander City; 4350 US 231 in Wetumpka
• Details: As part of its 12th "School Rocks Backpack Giveaway," Verizon's authorized retailer Round Room will give free backpacks out to families. The company noted that select stores will have clear backpacks available to meet that school district’s requirements. Any leftover backpacks will be given to area schools. The organization expects to give out more than $3 million worth of backpacks at their more than 1,000 stores nationwide.

Alex Gladden is the Montgomery Advertiser's public safety reporter. She can be reached at agladden@gannett.com or on Twitter @gladlyalex.