By:  Erionna Burks

Summer as we know it is soon coming to an end. For many children, this means no more summer adventures, warm weather, and staying up late at night with friends. As you may know, many adolescents dread having to wake up early mornings to prepare for tests and coming home with book loads of homework. With the new school year right around the corner, not every parent has the ability to make sure that their child has everything needed for the upcoming school year. That’s why we have places like the Jackson Medical Mall, who’s made it their mission to provide the youth of Jackson with the essentials needed to kick off their 2018-2019, school year.

Saturday, July 21st, 2018, the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation held their 3rd annual back to school event, Jumpstart: The Back to School Jam.

Since their very first JumpStart on July 16, 2016, the Jackson Medical Mall has been giving back to the community, reaching out to the children with a school supply giveaway, health screenings from local businesses such as Mississippi Smiles and The Mississippi Eyecare Associates, and so much more. Examining everything from blood pressure, to eyesight, height, and weight, to providing dental screenings and cleanings, the Jackson Medical Mall has gone above and beyond in making sure that your child begins their year as healthy as possible!

At this year’s grand event, nearly 1500 children, guided by their parents, were present to participate in the activities provided. An arts and crafts station, where many young artists personalized their own bookmarks, masks, door hangers, hats, and sunglasses, was located in the designated “kids zone”, along with several Bounce Houses, and colorful face painting.  

For the 3rd year in a row, the event also featured a talent showcase where young people ages 14-21 were able to compete for cash prizes.  Winners of this year’s showcase are as follows:

Ki’Andria Miley – 1st Place Winner

Hayley Porter – 2nd Place Winner

Dallas Robinson – 3rd Place Winner

A special thanks goes out to JumpStart sponsors: Molina Healthcare, Milton Ayers Dental, Military Masonic Lodge #1, SWAT: Sisters With A Throttle, and The Mississippi Paralysis Association, the volunteers, and Jackson Medical Mall’s own tenants, such as: Sustaloons, Twisted Pretzel and Sameerah’s Healthy Kiosk, who were vital contributors in making this year’s Jumpstart: The Back to School Jam, a complete success!