Shield Bearer hosts Taste and Toast Celebration Aug. 8

The nonprofit hosts a tapas and sangria event with tastings, networking and door prizes to raise funds and awareness for Shield Bearer. Pre-registration required. 6-8:30 p.m. Free. The Work Lodge, 118 Vintage Park Blvd., Houston. 281-894-7222. www.shieldbearer.org 

SAT workshop helps prepare Cy-Fair students Aug. 8-10

The Berry Center hosts a three-day SAT workshop for local students with the chance to learn strategies for the test. Attendees will receive $50 off the cost of attendance if they bring a friend. $150. 7:30 a.m.-noon. Berry Center, 8877 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress. 281-912-3939. www.berrycenter.net/events

Tax-free shopping is this weekend, Aug. 11-13

During the annual event, Texas shoppers do not have to pay sales taxes on various items, including most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced less than $100. www.comptroller.texas.gov

Local church, YMCA provide free backpacks Aug. 12

Houston North West Church is partnering with the YMCA to provide 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to students in need from grades K-12. The event is limited to specific zip codes, although other areas will be participating. 8 a.m.-noon. Free. HNW Church, 19911 Hwy. 249, Houston. 281-469-3389. www.hnw.org/backpack

Five Loaves Pizza hosts fundraising auction Aug. 12

Local eatery Five Loaves Pizza hosts an auction and fundraiser for the first school in the Kayepas village in Karamoja, Uganda. Garrett MacIntyre will perform and Becky Sekamanya, the director of Ezekiel 37 Ministry, will share about the school. Entry includes two slices of pizza, dessert and a drink. 2-5 p.m. $15. Five Loaves Pizza, 12640 Telge Road, Ste. D, Cypress. 832-653-2433. www.fiveloavespizza.com