From left, Donald, Brandon and Joann Ingram gave out 1,000 backpacks full of school supplies to children Saturday afternoon at the Martin C. Freeman Gymnasium. They also provided school supplies to teachers for free and a play area for children. Photos by William 'Bud' Hardy / Neuse News

Brandon Ingram has continued to give back and Saturday was no exception.

Ingram held his third annual back-to-school drive at Teachers Memorial, providing hundreds of locals with supplies for the upcoming school year, which starts Monday for most in our area.

Donald Ingram, Brandon's father, said 1,000 book bags were full of supplies for those in attendance. Lines started forming around 9 a.m. Saturday for the 2 p.m. event.

"We’re trying to make sure we can help out in any capacity,” Ingram said. “We’ve seen the need for kids that come through that need shoes, supplies, just a start-up boost. Growing up in the community, it was a no-brainer and we’re blessed to be in the position to give back.”

Kinston resident Madie Moore was among the hundreds in line excited to see the event.

“I came because of the support of the community,” Moore said. “Brandon has done an outstanding job and we’re happy for what he’s done.”

Another Kinston resident, Shirley Moore, had similar sentiments.

“He’s giving back to his city and sharing what he has accomplished,” Moore said. “I hope to get a chance to meet him and he’s definitely doing a lot for Kinston.”

Cynthia Pickett was among the volunteers passing out book bags and said it was all about the community.

“I wanted to give back in my own way and help out my cousin,” Pickett said.

When Ingram arrived, he took numerous pictures and signed different items for dozens of excited fans. Ingram, who was in Kinston for the first time since the season ended, said he wanted to leave a good example for the residents, especially the younger ones."

“I try to remember that somebody’s watching me,” Ingram said. “There are 300, 400 kids watching me right now, so I’ve got to make the right move every time. I haven’t been home all summer, so it felt good to be around the same people I grew up with and taught me life lessons.

"I don’t feel it’s a responsibility at all."