Happiness and excitement were in full abundance Saturday in Hampton as Tri-Cities children got an early start for the upcoming school year.

Back to School Ministries held their ninth annual Back-to-School Bash with thousands throughout the region coming out to take part in the event.

“There are a lot of smiling faces and a lot of happy kids with their parents running around. That’s what this day is all about,” Shannon Posada, event director, said Saturday.

Volunteers were able to distribute over 1,500 backpacks filled with school supplies for children in grades K-12. Other gifts were provided during the afternoon, along with a variety of free events and refreshments to provide a joyful occasion for families.

Various organizations were also represented during the event, passing out resources and information to help make the school transition easier for children. Resources for families were also distributed. Different agencies on site included TNCHIP, Carter Carter County Sheriff’s Office, Carter County Drug Prevention Coalition, health department and the Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library.

“This has just been a blessing,” Posada said about the community support. “We couldn’t have done this without our volunteers. Our churches and community united as one to make this event possible.”

Attendees packed the Hampton High School parking lot and were shuttled in by a variety of church vans that participate with Back to School Ministries.

“If it weren’t for the churches letting us use their vans and the drivers volunteering their time, there’s no way this event happens,” Posada said.

Prior to receiving church supplies, families were greeted with a special skit inside Harmony Free Will Baptist that was based on Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” story. Families then had an opportunity to talk with volunteers and learn more about what the churches’ in the community have to offer.

“This was such a great opportunity to reach out to the community,” Posada added. “We had so many people either rededicate their lives or get saved. We couldn’t be happier with how the day went.”

With the event now in the books, preparation is underway for the 10-year anniversary of the event.

“It’s never too early to get involved,” Posada said. “If someone is looking to get involved, now is the best chance to start up. With next year being our 10th year anniversary, we’re ready to go all out.”

Visit www.harmonychurch.org to learn more about how to get involved with next year’s event.