RINCON — The Ready2-Connect Back2School Blowout is ready to deliver its most powerful punch yet thanks to the contributions of Wal-Mart.

Ready2Connect, in partnership with the Effingham County Board of Education, City of Rincon, Rincon Recreation Department and several community sponsors, will distribute free school supplies, including book bags furnished by Chick-fil-A, from 6-8 p.m. today. More than 7,000 students have been served by the annual event since it started 10 years ago.

The 2022 version is expected to be the biggest one ever. Wal-Mart provided major funding for it.

“It’s a grant (that Ready2Connect Executive Director Destiny Bradshaw uses) to purchase school supplies,” said Tiffany Ervin, people lead at Rincon’s Wal-Mart. “When she comes into the store to purchase school supplies, we will get a team together to help her get that together and get it ready (for distribution). We also have a sign-up list for employees who are not working the day of the event to help her hand out the school supplies.”

Last year, 12 Wal-Mart workers helped on the day of the blowout.

Blowout participants must register at Macomber Park (1103 Lexington Ave.) and pick up their supplies, including binders, at the Rincon Learning Center (116 E. 5th St). Families must remain in their vehicles as school supplies and other resources will be received through a window.

Masks will be provided if desired.

Call (912) 527-4919 or email dbradshaw@r2connect.org for more information.