UA medical school students gave away backpacks, school supplies and clothes to underprivileged children of the Tucson community on Friday, in an effort to make the coming school year a little brighter.
"Back to School Night" was held at Southside Presbyterian Church and over 100 children, ages four to 18, came to get the tools needed for a successful school year.
"I feel lucky to get these things for school," said Daphne Nabatanzi, who will be a freshman at Salpoint Catholic High School.
Through the UA Medical School's Commitment to Underserved Populations clinic, medical students raised money for the event last spring through donations, bake sales and an auction of a UA Men's Basketball autographed ball.
The event included free healthy snacks and drinks as well as pizza provided or paid for by Wild Oats.
In addition to children getting to pick out their own supplies and clothes, the event included games like mini- bowling, supervised by med student volunteers.
"We want to make sure the kids have the best opportunity to achieve," said David Krpata, a second year medical student.
The Hopi Foundation's Center for Prevention and Resolution of Violence was the non-profit organization responsible for connecting the children with the resources.
Beverly Blashill, a caseworker with CPRV, explained that "the med students raised the money, we provided the clients."
The medical students raise over $2,000 to buy new backpacks and supplies. Clothes and new shoes were purchased on discounts, used clothing was provided in part by the Community Church of the Foothills, and school supplies were donated by World Care.
Roberto Montes, a Desert Rose High School student, was picking up a new backpack for his 8-year-old little brother.
"This is really cool," said Roberto. "It's going to make school easier for him."
UA medical student Anne Welch helped coordinate the event and said her parents even helped out with some donations.
Roughly 20 medical students took part in the event through fundraising and participating in the event on Friday.
"I did this to help the underprivileged. To make sure kids have good clothes and backpacks to begin the next school with," said second-year medical student Amy Schlaifer.