Back to School

As the new school year approaches, Zero Suicide Partners of Pinellas, in partnership with the Juvenile Welfare Board (JWB), is stepping up to ensure that local students are ready to return to the classroom with the supplies and support they need.

Through a series of community back-to-school events, Zero Suicide is providing free school supplies to families across Pinellas County while also promoting mental health awareness and connection. These events offer more than just supplies and notebooks, they are a chance for families to learn about available resources, build relationships, and kick off the school year feeling supported and empowered.

Yesterday, July 17th, 2025, Zero Suicide joined the community at the Sanderlin Neighborhood Family Center in St. Petersburg, connecting with families and helping students gear up for success. It's important to remember that receiving school supplies is about more than pencils and paper; it's about giving students the tools they need to succeed, feel confident, and start the year on the right foot. When families get support from their community, it eases financial stress and reminds them they're not alone.

Having the right supplies helps students stay engaged, feel prepared, and take pride in their learning. It also sends a powerful message: You matter, and your community cares about your future.

The giveaways continue with the upcoming events, including:

• Saturday, July 19th | 10a- 2p

  Hispanic Outreach Center, Clearwater, FL

  612 Franklin St., Clearwater, FL 33756

• Saturday, July 26th | 11a- 1p

  Greenwood Recreation Center, Clearwater, FL

  900 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Clearwater, FL 33755

• Saturday, August 2nd | Multiple Locations

  • Pinellas County Sheriff's Police Athletic League | 9a- 12p

    3755 46th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33714

  • Largo Public Library | 1p- 3:30p

    120 Central Park Dr., Largo, FL 33771

  • Tropicana Field Back to School Bash | 4p- 8p

    Lot 1, 1701 17th St., St. Petersburg, FL 33705

Each location offers opportunities for kids to get excited about returning to school, while families learn more about the resources available through Suncoast Center and the Zero Suicide team- further building mental wellness and preventing suicide in our communities.

Zero Suicide's involvement highlights the importance of meeting families where they are- celebrating community, supporting education, and promoting the message: Be Kind, Be Curious, Be Connected.