‘Let’s Love Lakewood’ Event Giving Away 500 Backpacks

Last year, organizers of the inaugural “Let’s Love Lakewood” event gave away 250 backpacks to students headed back to school.

But the organizers weren’t expecting the huge crowd that turned out for the event at the .

They ran out of food. 

“It exceeded our expectations,” said organizer Sandy Rodriguez. “This year we want to give away about 500 backpacks, have much more food and giveaways.”

The entire community is invited to attend the second-annual “Let’s Love Lakewood” event, hosted by Lakewood’s New Life Church from noon to 4 p.m. Aug. 18, in the parking lots behind the Masonic Temple.

The event is free and open to the public.

In addition to games, music and food, this year the organizers are giving away 500 backpacks — all of them stuffed with back-to-school supplies.

Those interested in donating backpacks and/or school supplies are encouraged to drop them off at the office located at 14305 Madison Avenue.  

“I think the positive response is first that people are attracted to all the activity — the music, the bounce houses, the smell of food,” said Rodriguez. “And once they come they find it’s all free.”