Are you or someone you know struggling to buy school supplies for your children?

The community is coming to the rescue with a variety of events to ensure that all students have the items they need to succeed.

First up is one of the area’s biggest drives to collect backpacks and other supplies for students.

The Fifth Annual Ultimate Backpack Supply Drive will take place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, Aug. 11, at the Arthur Ashe Jr. Athletic Center, Arthur Ashe Boulevard and Robin Hood Road in North Side.

The goal is to fill 50,000 backpacks that will be distributed to schools in Richmond, Petersburg and other area school districts, according to Timmy Nguyen, the founder and leader of the proj- ect for Virginia Commonwealth University Alumni. There will be no distribution to the public, Mr. Nguyen said.

Similar collection drives are underway in Chesterfield and Hanover counties.

Direct distribution to parents and students at no charge will take place at other events.

Here is information on the dates and times:

Saturday, Aug. 13 – 9 a.m. to noon, Liberation Church, 5501 Midlothian Turnpike. This is the Northside Coalition for Children’s 14th Annual Citywide Back to School Rally. The event organizer, 6th District School Board member Shonda Harris-Muhammed, noted that the move to this site means there will be no lines as there will be enough room for everyone to enter at once.

9 a.m. to noon, Biltmore Baptist Church, 1300 New York Ave., Glen Alen. The church is hosting the annual giveaway of book bags. Students must be present.

Saturday, Aug. 20 – 2 to 4 p.m., Plaza View, 451 E. Belt Boulevard. Monica Ball of “Real Talk With Monica” will host her 2nd Annual Back to School Rally. It is open to the public. Along with school supplies, the event will feature food, speakers and fun activities, it has been announced. The city and several corporations are supporting the rally.

Saturday, Aug. 20 – 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. 63Thirty5 Restaurant, 6335 Jahnke Road. This is the Chukk Scott Foundation’s Annual Backpack Giveaway. Carnival-style event with distribution, it has been announced.

Saturday, Aug. 27 – 9 a.m. to noon, Dorey Park, 2999 Dar- bytown Road, Henrico County. This is the Dorey Park Farmers Market “Teacher Appreciation and School Supplies Giveaway.”

Saturday, Aug. 27 – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Supreme Flea Market, 3302 Williamsburg Road. This is the market’s “Back to School Giveaway.” The event also is to include speakers, live entertain- ment, food and fun activities, it has been announced.

Saturday, Aug. 27 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Unity of Faith Fel- lowship International, 298 Cedar Fork Road. This is the church’s “Back to School Event.” Along with school supply distribution, the event will feature food and fund activities, the church has announced.