Haskell Indian Nations University freshmen Kelia Keams, Shiprock, N.M., left, and Mariah Watchman, Pendleton, Ore., pick up a few free school supplies at a Back2Campus outreach event on campus Sunday. Students also enjoyed a cook-out and music.

An estimated 700 Haskell Indian Nations University students filled the school grounds Sunday evening for a free dinner and school supply giveaway. This was the second year for the Back2Campus outreach event at the campus.

“The sincere thank-yous we get is amazing,” Jason Metz said.

Jason and his wife, Amy Metz, head up Breaking Camp, which got started in Lawrence in 2008. It’s a local ministry that focuses on the needs of the area’s American Indian population.

Part of the couple’s efforts include providing a welcome back dinner for Haskell students. The students enjoyed their free meal Sunday while enjoying music at the gazebo.

Hundreds of donated items appeared on the lawn, including towels, blankets, notebooks, pillows, lamps and more. The Metzes collected the items to give to students in need.

“Some of the students come to Haskell without the basic necessities, so that’s what we want to help with,” Amy Metz said.

At one point in the evening, Jason announced over a microphone, “if you need something, just let us know.”

The students were advised to sign up for the supplies by putting their names in a box. Those in need would be first in line for the donated items, and whatever was left would be given away in a drawing.

The couple said it’s their intention to provide spiritual leadership to the students, by doing what they believe Jesus would do.

“They’re (students) not focused on what they don’t have,” Amy Metz said. “They can focus on their studies while they’re here at school.”

For more information on Breaking Camp, visit the organization’s website at www.breakingcamp.org.