Last year, during the City Church Norwich “FamJam” event, 100 free backpacks were filled with school supplies and given away to students. This year, the church is once again holding the giveaway event and includes fun family activities and food. The free event will be held from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, August 30, at 97 Silver Street, located at the City Church Norwich. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — With students heading back to school soon, the City Church Norwich is holding a celebratory event for the community, offering free backpacks filled with school supplies, and inviting all to enjoy fun family activities and food.

The free event will be held from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, August 30, at 97 Silver Street, located at the City Church Norwich.

During the event, there will be carnival games and prizes, face painting, bounce houses, music and more.

Backpacks will be handed out at 2:30 p.m. to students in grades 12 and under, on a first come, first serve basis. Students must be present to receive a backpack.

City Church Norwich Campus Pastor Zach Thorp said the church launched the annual backpack giveaway four years ago as a part of “FamJam”, a free family outreach event for the community.

“This year, we've taken a new approach, but our mission remains the same,” Thorp said.

Thorp explained they used to have one event through the year but this year they focused more on the Vacation Bible Experience (VBX), to be intentional with discipleship.