School Districts throughout the state are suffering under catastrophic budget cuts and are looking to families more than ever to fill in the gap.

Funds for books and basic art supplies are needed more this year than at any other time in recent history and schools are turning to the parents, while many parents are wondering how they are supposed to pay for clothes and other necessities especially in light of the state's high unemployment rate.

Thanks to several local nonprofits - and one restaurant - help is on the way.

Locations in West Oakland and at City Hall will host backpack and school supply give-a-ways this coming Saturday, Aug. 28. Each event will be jam packed with useful information, food and fun activities. Oakland parents and students will have the opportunity to get what they need to start the school year off on the right footing. 

West Oakland Lower Bottoms Fatherless Children Foundation is an inspiring organization that was founded on the need for mentoring programs that specifically address the special issues of young children that have lost a father due to violence. It will conduct a “Stop The Violence” march at noon until 3 p.m. Saturday beginning at DeFemery Park, 1651 Adeline St., and end with a backpack give-a-way at 10th and Center Street in West Oakland. This group is still taking donations of supplies and money. For more information contact Ora Knowell at orak_45@yahoo.com or (510) 251-2639.

The Oakland Natives Give Back organization, the mayor's office and Oakland Unified School District have received donations from the private and business sector and will hold a rally and school supply give-a-way at City Hall, 1 Frank Ogawa Plaza. Organizers say advance registration for Saturday’s 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. event is required and can be done online at backtoschoolrally2010.eventbrite.com.

While we're on the subject of heading back to school, G.U.R.L.S. ROCK 2010 Summit will also happen this Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., also at Oakland City Hall. Girls ages 12-19 are invited to participate in this first annual event where they will be exposed to new life lessons and mentoring relationships; learn the value of unity in a safe, “girl-focused” environment; gain leadership skills; and participate in activities that nurture and foster respect for self, others and community. G.U.R.L.S.: growth, unity, respect, leadership, success, all important for young ladies as they start the new school year. Register at 2010gurlsrocksummit.eventbrite.com. Cost: $25. Call (510) 568-5899 for more information.

On Tuesday, Aug. 31, a local hotspot is hosting a fundraiser for Oakland's public schools. Bocanova - a restaurant in Jack London Square that serves dishes from North, Central and South America - is preparing a buffet dinner to benefit Oakland Fund for the Arts – a nonprofit that raises money for arts education in the city. A silent auction will take place before dinner. You can make reservations at www.oaklandfundforthearts.org or by calling (510) 488-3036.

While you are in the giving mode, think about contributing to the Our Youth Matter on-going school supplies general fund. Visit its website at ouryouthmatter.com or send your donation to Our Youth Matter, P.O. Box 6123, Oakland, CA 94603.