August 29, 2025

Local Restaurant Donates School Supplies to Fairmount Park Elementary

News Summary

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, located at the St. Petersburg Pier, has made a significant contribution to Fairmount Park Elementary by donating 25 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. This initiative, driven by community support, aims to help students start the school year with the tools they need for success. The donation is part of a larger effort to enhance the educational experiences of local students and reinforces the importance of community engagement in education. Principal Andrew Akapnitis expressed gratitude for the support, signifying the positive impact of such collaborations.

St. Petersburg – Employees at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille on the St. Petersburg Pier have made a significant contribution to local education by donating backpacks and school supplies to students at Fairmount Park Elementary. This charitable effort aims to help students start the school year with dignity and confidence, illustrating the restaurant’s commitment to supporting the community.

The donation included 25 stylish backpacks adorned with popular children’s themes such as Spidey and Friends, Bluey, Paw Patrol, and various superheroes. These backpacks come filled with essential supplies needed for a successful academic year, which were gathered through a back-to-school drive that raised over $400. The funds helped to purchase the backpacks and fulfill the school’s Amazon wishlist for supplementary supplies that are critical for the students.

The supplies provided in the backpacks are diverse and carefully selected to enhance the students’ learning experiences. Items included in the donation are crayons, markers, fidget toys, party favors, bubble wands, neon sunglasses, reusable water bottles, snacks, and pencil cases. Such materials not only equip students for their studies but also contribute to their overall enjoyment and engagement in the classroom.

Principal Andrew Akapnitis of Fairmount Park Elementary expressed appreciation for the support from Doc Ford’s and the wider community. This response underscores the important role that community engagement plays in supporting educational initiatives and providing students with a nurturing learning environment.

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille has initiated this donation as part of a broader effort to enhance the educational experiences of local students. The restaurant has expressed a commitment to continue its partnership with local schools, recognizing the importance of providing students with the resources they need to thrive. This initiative is a testament to how local businesses can play a vital role in uplifting educational institutions and their students.

The contributions made by Doc Ford’s are vital, especially for individuals and families who may struggle to afford basic school supplies. The outreach program not only aims to assist students in starting the school year on the right foot but also works to foster a sense of community and collaboration across St. Petersburg.

This partnership and similar initiatives emphasize the importance of community support in educational settings. Organizations and local businesses are encouraged to take part in such efforts, as they can significantly impact the lives of students and the community at large. By providing necessary resources, businesses help students feel empowered and motivated as they take on their academic challenges.

As the school year unfolds, Fairmount Park Elementary and its students will benefit from this generous donation. The initiative not only looks to alleviate the burdens on families but also aims to instill a sense of pride and confidence in students. The ongoing collaboration between local businesses like Doc Ford’s and schools highlights the power of community support in enriching the educational landscape.

Looking ahead, there are plans for further initiatives that will engage local businesses in supporting school programs. Such continued partnerships aim to enhance the educational experience for all students at Fairmount Park Elementary and foster a culture of giving within the community.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER

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