OAKLEAF — Metro Church Jax hosted their Back to School Giveaway on Saturday.

Held at the Villages at Oakleaf Plantation, long lines of people waited as the church gave out 70 backpacks on a first come, first serve basis. They also had free hot dogs, popcorn, drinks and snow cones provided by the apartment complex.

The church also partnered with Main Event Jacksonville, who provided two full bags of school supplies and free vouchers for a laser tag game or $10 worth of game play. The prizes were raffled at the event. 

And with a "500 Toys Giveaway," children were also able to help themselves to a multitude of free toys and items.

The event saw much success with over 300 people attending. Due to the large number of attendees, however, not everyone was able to receive a backpack or supplies. 

But, for the ones who were not able, the church did raffle a $200 Target gift card, as well as offer Main Event vouchers.

Lead Pastor Alan Diaz said this was the church's first time hosting the event in Oakleaf, and he hopes to continue in the future.

Metro Church began three and a half years ago during the pandemic, and they continue to host their services in the local Epic Theatres. He said that having the event in Oakleaf was ideal because of the reach they want to make to local families.

"We just want to be a blessing to the community," Diaz said. "Our church has been a blessing to us, so we want to give back to the community."