Back 2 School giveaway in Pocatello brings large crowd

A line of people wrapped around Mountain View Events Center in Pocatello on Saturday as thousands showed up for the annual Back 2 School Giveaway.

At the giveaway, kids could pick up any needed items for school – backpacks, pencils, notebooks, even clothing.

All supply donations came from the community.

At the event, there were also things like medical, dental and vision services available for families.

Joshua Robinson, the event director, said the goal was to have as many needs as possible be met in one place.

There were also bounce houses, Disney princesses and other activities to make it fun and gets excited for school. Robinson said they had about 80 businesses and 20 local churches, as well as numerous volunteers participate and help out.

This is the 11th year for the giveaway, but it was the first year at Mountain View Events Center. Robinson said they needed a larger venue because they outgrew their last space.

Robinson said they planned for around 5,000 people, counting family members, and will probably give out supplies to between 1,500 and 1,700 kids.

He said the event is a great way to help those in need and to pay it forward.

“The goal really is simple,” Robinson said. “You know, in our day and age we can get so distracted where we are focused on our digital lives or we’re doing our own stuff, that we forget the most simple thing you can do is to show love to somebody who’s your neighbor. This event is about taking our community and showing love to our community. So it’s members of the community turning around and helping their neighbors who need help.”