UTICA/ROME, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) -- The first day of school is just over two weeks away, and several organizations are holding events to help Utica and Rome students get ready for the big day.

On Saturday, August 16, Kingdom Harvest Apostolic Church will be holding a free giveaway at their location on North Madison Street in Rome. The event will be held from 11 am to 3 pm and will also include a barbecue, games, and a bouncy house, along with giveaways of backpacks and school supplies, while supplies last.

Starting on Monday, August 18 from 3 pm to 6 pm, the Johnson Park Center on 1415 West Street will be offering a food pantry with school supplies. The event will also run on Tuesday, August 19 from 2 pm to 6 pm and Friday, August 22 from 9 am to 1 pm.

Available items -- along with the s

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