By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

The West End Neighborhood Watch is gearing up for its fourth Back-to-School Giveaway.

The community group is collecting school supplies and monetary donations to give neighborhood students as many of the required items as possible.

“I really go by the list they send out from the school, that way they will have things they can actually use,” event coordinator Velma “KeKe” Tinsley said.

Some items on the list include notebooks, binders, notebook paper, copy paper, No. 2 pencils and pens. Tinsley said the younger grades also have crayons on their supply list.

She said many of the classes are requiring copy paper now, and this was a need Neighborhood Watch was able to meet last year.

“We know we can’t fulfill the whole list, but we want to be able to help,” Tinsley said.

For Tinsley, participating in the school supply giveaway is a way to help students, just like she was helped.

“It’s important to me because people helped me along the way … if you are going to work in the community, then you need to give back and pay it forward,” Tinsley said.

Those wanting to donate can contact Tinsley at (205) 755-6669 or contact the West End Neighborhood Watch through its Facebook page.

Neighborhood Watch members Jessie Pearl Binion and Jackie baker are also collecting supplies.

The school supply giveaway will be on July 28 in West End Park (E.M. Henry Community Center) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students must be present to receive the supplies.

“We are appreciative of everyone that has given in the past,” Tinsley said. “We are so thankful to everyone who helps make this a success.”

Last year, West End Neighborhood Watch gave away almost $1,000 worth of school supplies.