Students at the Soulsville Charter School and the Refugee Empowerment Program are getting a special visit from Grizzlies head coach Lionel Hollins this week and he's not coming to class empty-handed.

"Over 500 backpacks and supplies will be given to students thanks to funds raised at this year’s Bowling for Backpacks event," according to the Grizzlies PR folks. "Started by Hollins in 2003, Bowling for Backpacks has helped raise thousands of dollars worth of school supplies for youth since its inception.According to the Grizz."

Hollins will be handing out the supplies on Wednesday, August 25 at both the Soulsville CHarter School and later in the day at the Refugee Empowerment Program.

Photo courtesy Flickr user soulsvillefoundation.

Parents can make sure their kids are safe when they’re on the roads thanks to free car seats from the Office of Early Childhood and Youth West Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center. Here’s the release:

Riverview Elementary School will host its first annual booster seat drive on Tuesday, August 31 from 1:30 p.m.  until 3 p.m. at the school, 260 Joubert.

The event, sponsored by the Office of Early Childhood and Youth West Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center, will offer a free booster seat to parents who do not currently own a seat for students in grades Pre-K through second.

By law, children must be properly secured in a child restraint system when riding in a car.

*Action News 5 received the following press release to our news desk*

Starting last month, the Mephis Animal Shelter instituted new operating hours. The shelter opens at 10 a.m. and closes as late as 7 p.m. some weekenights.