In advance of the school year, Lipman Family Farms of Immokalee, Fla., has donated 1,800 backpacks to area students through its 14th annual Backpack Giveaway, according to a release. The company says the community event reflects its dedication to supporting local education and empowering the next generation.
Held Aug. 10 at Immokalee High School, the event also included the donation of 350 bikes, over 2,000 pairs of shoes and $20,000 in gift cards to attendees. Lipman partnered with area community resources to help make this event successful as Immokalee students head back to school this fall, the release said.
Lipman says its support of educational endeavors in the Immokalee community stems from the journey of Lipman’s founder, Max Lipman, who was unable to read or write and emphasized with his children the importance of continuing their education.
Today Lipman operates with its fourth generation of family leadership, who continue to emphasize education as part of the company’s core values and commitment to the community.
The company says empowering the next generation of learners is key for Lipman’s workforce and the community in which it operates.
“This annual event has become a cornerstone of our commitment to the Immokalee community, empowering students on their educational journey,” said Maria Munguia, community and programs manager for Lipman. “As a company deeply rooted in this community, it’s inspiring to see everyone come together to make such a positive impact. Our partnerships with local organizations play a vital role in this success, and we’re proud to be a part of it.”
Healthcare Network and DSD Homes were additional major supporters of the event, giving a boost to the event with the resources Lipman was able to offer to attendees, the release said. CC’s Wish List donated over 2,000 pairs of shoes, and the Rotary Club of Naples Bay donated over 200 pairs of shoes. Additionally, over 50 community businesses and organizations came together as exhibitors to showcase all of the resources available to families in the area.
With over 18,000 backpacks distributed to date, the annual event continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of local students, empowering them for success both in and out of the classroom, the release said.
Related link: More about Lipman Family Farms and its community initiatives
