Under the bright lights of Houston's city hall, excitement filled the air as city officials and community leaders gathered to announce the details of the upcoming "Mayor's Back 2 School & Health Fair," presented by Shell. Pastor and council member Willie Davis kicked off the event, expressing gratitude for the sponsors and volunteers who make this initiative possible. "This is such a great occasion," he said, highlighting the humanitarian efforts that benefit families across the city.

Ava Routt, HR manager at Shell, took the stage next, emphasizing the company's commitment to sustainable energy and community support. "We recognize that in order to build a sustainable future, we need to continue to build a pipeline of strong technical talent and future leaders within our communities," she stated. Routt's words underscored Shell's dedication to not only providing energy but also investing in the youth of Houston.

Brian Green, CEO of the Houston Food Bank, followed with a heartfelt message about the importance of supporting families in need. He noted that many families struggle financially, impacting their children's ability to thrive in school. "Getting kids off to a good start for their school year makes a huge difference," Green remarked, reinforcing the critical role of community support in ensuring that children have the resources they need.

Ricardo Montaleno, director of special events at the mayor's office, shared his long-standing involvement with the event, which has been a labor of love for over 15 years. He expressed gratitude to the sponsors and volunteers, emphasizing the impact of their efforts on local families. "This is something that many of our Houston students and families look forward to every year," he said, highlighting the fair's significance in the community.

The event aims to distribute 20,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to students, ensuring that no child is turned away, regardless of registration status. Montaleno encouraged families to register for the fair, which will take place on August 2, 2025, from 8 AM to 2 PM. Participants who register will also receive free transportation via metro.

As the meeting concluded, the collective enthusiasm for the upcoming fair was palpable. The collaboration between Shell, the Houston Food Bank, and the city of Houston promises to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many families, setting the stage for a successful school year ahead.