Backpack giveaway and block party in Gulfport

Gulfport families attended a ‘Stop the Violence’ block party over the weekend as a way to take action, but also brings the community together as school begins across the Coast.

The block party ran with the third annual Christopher Bennett Memorial Backpack Giveaway.

Over 200 backpacks were given away Saturday filled with school supplies to ensure the youth is ready for their classes.

The block party also included a live DJ, fun games, and activities for guests to enjoy, and a splashpad just in case anyone needed to beat the heat.

Kinyatta Bennett says the backpack giveaway is keeping her husband’s legacy alive. “It’s emotional, you know? Because, you know, to me it’s important to keep his memory alive. He was a dentist. He worked along with Harrison County School District, going to schools to treat the patients, treat the students there. So, it’s important for me to do this and keep his memory going.”

Bennett hopes kids work hard, study hard, and stay focused during the school year.