For a lot of kids back to school is a fun and exciting time, filled with new adventures in learning and reuniting with friends.
But for some parents, it can be a financially stressful time, trying to get all of the supplies needed for kids to be properly prepared.
That is why Bud Dupree has always done his part to give back, doing so in the past in his hometown of Macon, Georgia, and recently expanding his efforts to Pittsburgh to help even more kids as they head back to the classroom.
On Monday Dupree hosted his 'Back to School' giveaway through his First 48 Foundation, teaming up with Pittsburgh Public Schools to give away backpacks stuffed with supplies to students.
"We try to give back to the community, especially in the inner city, and make it as fun as possible," said Dupree, who hosted a similar event earlier this month in Georgia. "It's fun to do it in Pittsburgh. I am always doing this in Georgia, in my hometown, and to be able to expand it with my foundation is a great thing."
Dupree remembers what it was like when he was a kid, being the recipient of his own backpack at similar giveaways.
"When they did giveaways where I am from, I always tried to get one of the best ones," he joked.
But he also knew what it meant to get it and is thrilled he has been able to come full circle and give back himself.
"It's fun, being the person on the other side, helping someone else," said Dupree. "It puts a smile on my face to see how far I have come. It's great to give a helping hand. To see the families smile, the moms who need help, to take some stress off of them is a lot of fun.
"Sometimes it's hard for families to go out and purchase stuff for kids. Sometimes they need a little help. I want to give them assistance. It's always great to give back to people who are the cornerstone of why I am here. That is a big part of it."
