After getting her free, new backback stuffed with notebooks, markers and other supplies, Yisela Gonzales said she's ready to start the sixth grade in the Madison School District.

Gonzales was among more than 1,500 children from across Dane County to get a free backpack and supplies at 100 Black Men of Madison's annual back-to-school picnic Saturday at Demetral Park on the North Side.

"It's nice," said Yisela's mother, Maria. "Everything is so expensive nowadays. It helps."

More than 2,500 children, parents and other family members were also treated to free hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, cookies and beverages and got a chance to socialize. Madison Police gave out baseball cards.

The event has distributed more than 14,000 backpacks in the past 12 years, said Wayne Canty, vice president of 100 Black Men and chairman of the picnic.

"We want these kids to have the supplies they need," Canty said, noting some families with tight budgets are forced to choose between paying rent or bills and school supplies. "It's the biggest event of the year for 100 Black Men."

Rufus and Lorene Reynolds of Madison brought their five children to the picnic, and after getting their supplies, sons Quantaze and Trias got their picture taken with the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, which was parked near the park shelter.

"It's very nice," Lorene Reynolds said of the event. "It's very much appreciated."

"It's very rewarding," Canty said. "It's instant gratification to see these kids' faces. It really does get them thinking school."

The picnic is supported by Oscar Mayer, Target, Anchor Bank and St. Vincent de Paul.