Want to get an early start before school gets into session?
Area churches have you covered.
Back to School Ministries will host their ninth annual Back-to-School Bash on Saturday, July 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Harmony Free Will Baptist.
An estimated 1,400 to 1,500 backpacks filled with school supplies will be presented to children as they prepare for the upcoming school year at no charge while other free activities will be available to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult to receive a backpack.
“We’re so excited for this year’s event,” Shannon Posada, the Bash’s organizer, said Friday. “We have so many new and exciting features this year to show the public.”
With a “Beauty and the Beast,” theme, attendees have the opportunity to take in a family-friendly skit at the beginning of the day. Other activities will be available, including games, vendors, inflatables and special giveaways.
Comprised of several churches throughout the county, Back to School ministries offers the day as a way to give children an early start to the school year and an experience they’ll never forget.
“This event is open to children from all over the region,” Posada said. “It’s been a blessing to meet all the different families and children over the years.”
Attendees are encouraged to arrive at Hampton High School before the start of the event to park. Throughout the day, shuttles will transport participants from the school to the church.
And the success of the event isn’t possible without the community, Posada added. Whether it be from donations, volunteer hours or just saying a simple hello, the organizer said the ministry appreciated all the hard work.
“We still have a lot of people donating,” Posada said. “Everyone that donates has been a blessing. Our goal is to give back to children, and they make this possible. Our volunteers are also important to us.”
Posada added there are still volunteer opportunities for those looking to help during the day.
To learn more about the event, visit www.harmonychurch.org/back-2-school-bash or call (423) 725-3338.