TAMPA, Florida – Sailors attached to Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Miami volunteered in support of the Tampa Housing Authority’s 15th annual Back to School Bash held at the Oaks at Riverview Community Center in Tampa, August 8, 2024.
“This event provides an opportunity for our residents’ children to start school with a nice backpack and supplies,” said Stephanie Graham Guillmore, director of program and property services, Tampa Housing Authority. “These students are typically from very low income families and can’t afford it so it helps them have what they need to be able to participate at their best and be successful in school.”
Guillmore said that some households may have as many as ten school-aged children and the cost of school supplies becomes too much for some parents to handle. According to the THA website, the free, yearly event aims to relieve that burden.
Hundreds of children and youth, from elementary to high-school age, also participated in fun activities, shared in a free lunch and met with local business and community leaders. Other supporters from the community included the Tampa Police Department, Tampa Fire Rescue, NFL Alumni Tampa Bay Chapter, Tampa Bay Buffalo Soldiers, and many more.
The Navy fosters community service to create and sustain partnerships with the public, at home and abroad, and increase public awareness and understanding of the Navy.
Since its inception, Navy personnel have participated in the bash. Every year, Sailors and civilians gather donations for the children and speak to the participants about the Navy. Sailors from Tampa Bay area offices provide opening and closing remarks, showcase the different uniforms the Navy dons, and provide information about the various entry programs and jobs available.
![Sailors Volunteer at Tampa Housing Authority’s Back to School Bash]()
