Hundreds of parents and children gathered at the Rising Sun Grounds today for the Social Protection Board’s third annual back-to-school drive.

Officials said it was the largest turnout since the initiative began. Operations Manager Mary Baltimore noted the growing demand reflects the board’s commitment to helping families prepare for the new school year.

Children received school bags, shoes and other supplies, while board members handed out bottled water to ease the wait in the heat. Despite the large crowd, organisers described the event as a success, with every eligible child leaving equipped for the classroom.