Local hip hop artist Mistah F.A.B. recently held his annual “Back to School Block Party and Who’s House? Basketball Tournament” in North Oakland where over 1000 backpacks and school supplies were distributed.

The giveaway attracted hundreds of children and their families, who enjoyed art activities, face painting, and a DJ spinning the latest hip hop and R & B favorites. Guests enjoyed a popcorn and cotton candy stand, taco bar, along with cookies and brownies. Children jumped in the bounce house and made art with chalk and crayons.

For the past nine years, Theresa Anderson and Mistah F.A.B. have organized the event, serving up to 1500 people every year.

“We noticed the school system cut back on supplies and school starts at the end of the month, when people may be short on money for supplies,” said Anderson.

Mistah F.A.B. says he feels blessed to be in a position to help the community.

“We started doing our events when the crime rate in Oakland was really high,” he said. “It’s beautiful to come together because families aren’t always in the best position financially and it’s a blessing to be able to organize this. All of our little’s equal a lot.”

“We have a lot of single parents that need support and we must step forward because it’s about filing voids, being a role model and supporting our community,” he said.

According to Anderson, they also organize Thanksgiving and Christmas drives every year where they collect and distribute clothes, blankets, and food.

“Donors are wonderful,” said Anderson. “People pull up and say they have 5 turkeys or 20 turkeys. And before you know it, it’s Christmas so we have our annual toy and food drive for that as well.”

Born Stanley Petey Cox, Mistah F.A.B. is an acronym for “Money Is Something to Always Have — FaEva Afta Bread.” He is best known for his battle rapping and freestyle lyrics.

For more information email dabusride@gmail.com.

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