Polk State Lake Wales to host Ready to Soar giveaway with 500 backpacks & 1,500 books

Polk State College is hosting its Ready to Soar event on August 2 at the JD Alexander Center in Lake Wales to provide students and families with support and resources as the new school year begins, including up to 500 backpacks and 1,500 books.

Polk State College’s Ready to Soar

Backpack, book, and school supply giveaway

Saturday, August 2, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Polk State JD Alexander Center

152 E. Central Ave., Lake Wales

The event is open to the public and intended for students from kindergarten through college. While supplies last, each student will receive a backpack with school supplies and will have the opportunity to select up to two books to take home, thanks to a generous donation from The Family Literacy Academy at Lake Wales.

The Polk State College Foundation will also provide hamburgers and hot dogs from Topsy’s, along with drinks for students and families at the event, while supplies last.

There will be photo opportunities and children’s activities throughout the day.

Individuals with questions or who are interested in contributing to the event should contact Von McGriff, Director of the JD Alexander Center, at vmcgriff@polk.edu or 863.669.2885. Donations to the Polk State Foundation can be made online at foundation.polk.edu. Proceeds support community events like this as well as scholarships for students.