Academy Sports + Outdoors hosted its second annual Back-to-School Giveback event at its corporate headquarters at 1540 N. Mason Road in Katy on July 28, which benefited nearly 500 kids from BEAR (Be A Resource). It is the retailer’s first big project with the nonprofit, although Academy and BEAR have done smaller ventures together, a company spokesperson said.

BEAR s a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Houston that partners with Harris County Resources for Children and Adults and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to deliver emergency goods and services to children in CPS care. The organization serves about 17,000 children in the greater Houston area, according to their website (https://bearesourcehouston.org).

Participating students at the Katy event had the opportunity to prepare for the upcoming school year by selecting a complete school uniform in their school colors and in their sizes as well as a sports ball of their choice (football, soccer, or basketball). They were also able to enjoy snacks and to join in at an arts and crafts table where they could make their own bookmark.

“There are so many kids that are not ready for ‘back to school,’ and Academy is thrilled to help get them set up for success,” a company spokesperson said.

About Academy Sports + Outdoors

Academy is a leading full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer in the United States. Originally founded in 1938 as a family business in Texas, Academy has grown to more than 300 stores across 21 states and counting. Academy's mission is to provide "Fun for All." Academy's product assortment focuses on key categories of outdoor, apparel, sports and recreation and footwear through both leading national brands and a portfolio of private label brands. For more information, visit www.academy.com.