Buying school supplies can be difficult for struggling families, and that's something an annual giveaway in Syracuse is looking to help with.

For two decades, the Mary Nelson Youth Center Back to School Supply Giveaway has been a lifesaver for many local kids.

Thousands of students will be provided with everything they need to start the new school year.

"It's very important for me to see our babies in school and having what they need," said Mary Nelson, founder of the youth center. "Can you imagine going to school for the first day, going to class and you're not prepared? And I want people to know, good income or not, at this moment, you could be unable to get what your kids need for school. Making sure as a community we come together for these parents, it's something they don't need to worry about."

The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at the corner of Wood Avenue and South Salina Street.