Pack the back
What is Pack the Back?
The Pack the Back, Back to School Event is a charity project aimed at providing free haircuts, backpacks, and school supplies for underprivileged children in our community, just in time for back to school.
The average cost of school supplies per student in the Tri-County Area ranges from $55 to well over $95 depending on the grade level. Many children served at this event have little or no means to return to school with the proper supplies needed. This event will serve as a resource to help children feel comfortable and prepared to go back to school. Our goal is the provide up to 1,500 children during this event with the average cost for school supplies and backpacks for each student being $65.We are accepting Title Sponsors, Media Partners, product Donations, and Volunteer Groups to ensure success at this event. The event will also include a family-friendly children’s fair open to the general public.
Event Details:
- Door prizes and giveaways
- Food Truck Vendors onsite with sweet and savory food for purchase
- Fun activities for the kids
- Face Painting and Activity Center
- Cooling station
- Police and Fire Truck Show
- Vendor Displays include Sports Teams, Community and Youth Organizations, and various small businesses providing products/services
Pack the Back Event Sponsorship Benefits
Elite Tax Group & the Elizabeth Gamble Foundation, as well as our featured partner, the North Charleston Chamber of Commerce, invite you to become a sponsor for the fourth annual “Pack the Back- Back to School Event”. The event benefits underprivileged children in our community. For many children, it is the first time in their life that they can have a positive interaction with local city offices and business owners. In addition to fostering positive relationships with our community, children will be given the school supplies needed to begin their school year. This will not only help with their self-confidence but show them that there are people in the community who want to see them succeed and know that they matter. In addition to this positive impact, your business will also benefit from recognition for supporting a charitable community event.
For more information about each level of sponsorship, please email elitedoestaxes@gmail.com.
For more vendor registration information, visit the Pack the Back Vendor Registration Form.
For volunteer information, visit the SignUp Genius.
Register for Pack the Back!
Pack the Back Questions
When is Pack the Back?
Pack the Back will be held Saturday, August 12, 2023, at the T-MOBILE call center at 8571 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406, in the parking lot.
Do I need a ticket?
Yes, to receive a backpack you will need to register at the Eventbrite link posted on this page. This ensures safety on the grounds for the day. Only two tickets per email are allowed. Keep in mind we are serving ALL counties in the tri-county area that day. Without a ticket, you will not be able to receive a backpack. You do not need a ticket to patronize the vendors.
Will there be food and drinks?
Yes! There will be a few food trucks onsite that day selling tasty meals and treats.
Should I bring money?
It is not required for a backpack, it’s free. However, there are various vendors planned to attend that day with goodies for kids. Feel free to patronize them at the event.
Can I purchase alcohol during the event or bring my own?
Pack the Back is a family-filled event and alcohol is not allowed onsite during the event.
I was standing in line and did not receive a haircut ticket, who do I talk to?
Free haircuts are first come, first serve. The barbers reserve the right to limit cuts. You agree to the cuts at your own risk and are no responsibility of the North Charleston Chamber, Pack the Back, Elite Tax Group, or any of its fiduciaries.
What if it rains?
Pack the Back is rain or shine. It will be hot and there will be a cooling station but please bring water in the event there are long lines.
What if I need to use the restroom?
There are facilities for use on-site.
Will there be law enforcement onsite?
Yes. We want all our patrons to feel safe and for the kids to have fun. During the day, help all of us stay safe…. if you see something, seek staff or law enforcement immediately.
Can I donate school supplies?
Yes! You can bring supplies to Elite Tax Group, Monday-Thursday 9 am-2 pm until 8/2/2022.