Chicago organizations step up to get students prepared to head back to school

Students in Chicago are about to head back into the classroom and local organizations are pitching in.

With rising back-to-school prices making it tougher for local families, organizations are stepping up to help provide everything students need, from school supplies to food and haircuts.

At St. Sabina Church, they were giving away 1,200 backpacks to kids in the area. Community leaders at events like this across the city say it's a great way to start the school year on a positive note.

Meanwhile, a line formed at Joseph Jemison's mobile barbershop

"We're not new to this, but we're true to this," he said.

He gave away free haircuts at this Peace in the Streets event in Auburn Gresham. It's designed to provide a safe environment while connecting families with back-to-school resources. He said his goal was to have a positive impact.

"I was once a kid too. I raised by a single mother. So Times and finances was a little rough with three brothers," he said. "While the kids are getting a haircut, I'm asking them, ' How are you doing in school? How are your grades looking? What are your long-term goals? What are your short-term goals? Where do you see yourself after you graduate?"

Parents here on the South Side say community events like this, especially right before school starts is not only needed but appreciated.

"It's easy when you got help. They focused and they love school, so gotta get them there," said Ed Daniels, attending St. Sabina's event. 

Across the city at Union Park, Mayor Brandon Johnson is spreading that positivity too.

"As a former public school teacher and a parent, I know those first few days are critical to a child's development," he said.

Johnson says that with the start of another school year comes a reminder that there's still more work ahead when it comes to investing in public education.

"I believe that if we can continue to come together, our school district and districts across the state of Illinois can fully realize what the potential is when they are fully funded," he said.

Reminder! The first day of school for Chicago Public Schools is this Monday, Aug. 24.