A community is rallying to make sure five kids are able to go back to school.

On Sunday evening, Rose Leverett's grandchildren were getting ready for a sleepover at her house before the first day of school.

  • Children had to miss first day of school after burglary
  • Residents helping replace clothes, shoes, backpacks
  • Want to help? Call 941-565-0159

While the mother ran home to Bradenton to grab the children's supplies, Leverett received a panicked phone call. The home had been burglarized.

"She said they took all the food, they took all the kids' school clothes, they even took the dirty clothes," Leverett said.

With nothing, the children ranging from ages 5-15 were not able to go to school Monday.

"Just to see my grandkids sit here on Monday, and they was crying, and they say, 'Grandma we can't even go to school.' They were like, 'Why did they do this to us?'" Leverett said.

Word spread about what happened, and residents are stepping up to help.

"Food, clothes, we want to replace it all," said Light of the World Pastor Lelvin Lumpkin.

Clothes, shoes and backpacks have piled up across Leverett's home. Neighbors and strangers have been in and out with donations.

"If we can just be of some help and lighten their load, we don't even have to think about it," said Pastor Lumpkin.

Levrette called the community's help a blessing.

The family still needs more uniforms, clothes, and food. If you would like to donate to Leverett's family, call 941-565-9159 for more information.