MCJ Hosts Back-to-School Bash & Giveaway in Indianola, MS

Free health screenings, haircuts, school supplies, and more available for area families.

 

INDIANOLA, Miss. – The Mississippi Center for Justice (MCJ) announces its annual Back-to-School Bash & Giveaway, a community event to ensure local K-12 students start the academic year healthy, confident, and prepared for success. The event will take place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the MCJ Indianola office at 120 Court Avenue.

In addition to giving away FREE clear backpacks and school supplies (while supplies last), this collaborative effort brings together numerous community partners to provide essential services at no cost to families, including:

Health and Wellness Services:

  • Plan A will provide DTaP vaccinations for 7th graders and HPV vaccines
  • Comprehensive health screenings available on-site
  • Indianola Community Wellness Center providing two 3-month gym memberships (one per winner) for new members

Professional Hair Services: Local salons and barbershops are donating their time and expertise to help students look and feel their best. Students can win vouchers for the following services through random drawings held throughout the event:

  • Creased by Cre: Two updo sleek ponytails for girls
  • S & S College: Six student haircuts
  • Cutting Edge: Ten student haircuts
  • A to Z Beauty Supply: Ten student haircut vouchers redeemable at S&S College of Hair
  • D-Tights Barber Shop: Five haircuts

 In addition, A to Z Beauty Supply has donated khaki uniform shorts and pants to be given away.

“This event showcases the best of our community coming together to support our students,” said Yumekia S. Jones, Senior Program and Office Manager and Community Outreach Coordinator in MCJ’s Indianola office. “By addressing health, wellness, and back-to-school preparation needs, we’re helping remove barriers that can impact a child’s educational success. Parents are encouraged to bring their children and learn more about what MCJ offers to families.”

This initiative addresses the critical needs of many families at the start of each school year, from required vaccinations to professional grooming services that help students feel confident as they return to the classroom. Parents must attend with their children. All services and supplies will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information about the event, contact Yumekia S. Jones at 662-445-1596 or yjones@mscenterforjustice.org.

###

 The Mississippi Center for Justice (MCJ) is a nonprofit, public interest law firm committed to advancing racial and economic justice. Supported and staffed by attorneys and other professionals, MCJ develops and pursues strategies to combat discrimination and poverty statewide.