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The Dallas County Court Services held its annual back to school giveaway on Wednesday at the Selma-Dallas County YMCA.

The event was held for kids grades kindergarten through 12 who went though the program. The kids received book bags.

Grammar school kids received items such as ruler, pencils, glue and notebook paper. Middle school and high school kids received notebooks book bags, calculators, pens and pencils.

Dallas County Court Services Executive Director Miah Jackson thanked the sponsors and local organizations who help the youth overcome adversity.

Dallas County District Court Judge Bob Armstrong said he’s always glad to see teenagers restart their lives.

“We’ve helped a lot of people get in the right direction,” Armstrong said.

Dallas County Sheriff Mike Granthum said it’s not all about putting people behind bars.

“People think that the Dallas County Sheriff Office is all about locking people up,” Granthum said.

“We do put people in jail, but not everyone belongs in jail. You have to be held accountable for your actions. If you complete the program, you won’t be in jail. There are good people, but some people make bad decisions. Hats off to the families and kids who want to do better.”

Jackson, wife of Dallas County District Attorney Michael Jackson, also announced that the Michael David Johnson Foundation and YMCA will be working with the Dallas County Court Service.

Johnson, a former Dallas County High School and Georgia Tech standout, said spoke to the youth.

“It’s not about what you did yesterday or what you will do tomorrow, it’s about what you’re doing right now,” Johnson said.

Johnson, who played 10 NFL seasons, said he’s honored to give back to the area. “I believe in Selma and the people,” Johnson said. “I’m thankful to be here and help the city.”

Members of the Dallas County Court System and Alabama DHR were also on hand.

Rashida Morgan, who runs the YMCA, said she’s glad to help the Dallas County Court Service.

The Dallas Court Services exists to aid and monitor individuals who have slipped up with criminal behavior related to drugs, alcohol or other factors, including peer support, screening collections, substance abuse aid and prevention, child care, transportation, family court services.