WWE Superstar Titus O'Neil and the Bullard Family Foundation hosted the fourth annual Back to School Bash at Raymond James Stadium — home of WrestleMania 37 — in Tampa. Fla. Saturday.
Thirty thousand backpacks and school supplies were distributed to Hillsborough County K-12 students and families at the home of the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers, reigning Super Bowl champions.
The free event included services like sports physicals, dental care, eye care, haircuts and health screenings. The idea for the event first came from O'Neil's own experiences living in an underserved community.
"We started this journey four years ago in the hopes of being able to impact as many kids and teachers leading into the school year that we possibly can, especially those in underserved communities," O'Neil said. "I came from an underserved community. I was one of those people that was given an opportunity on numerous occasions, whether it was a backpack, eyeglasses, or dental needs. Other people helped support that. So I'm able to be in a position to help others do the same for so many people in our community."
Last year's bash was held virtually, so the Bullard Family Foundation and local partners wanted to make sure this year's event was unforgettable for the students and families in attendance.
More than a thousand volunteers helped with the event, which also featured special guest Flo Rida. O'Neil says the community's help is what keeps this large event going every year.
"We are going to continue to do this as long as we possibly can, because we know that the needs are great, but the people in this city and around this town are greater."