Community Action in Aroostook, Washington, and Hancock Counties (CAAWHC) and United Way of Aroostook invite community members to celebrate the start of a new school year at the Aroostook Back-to-School Bash from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at the CAAWHC Customer Service Center, 771 Main St., Presque Isle.
The free community event will feature giveaways, games and activities, a touch-a-truck experience, community resources and backpack distribution for registered families. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with 17 community resource vendors representing a wide range of local programs and services available to children and families.
Families can also explore a variety of vehicles during the touch-a-truck event, including emergency response vehicles, construction and utility equipment, public transportation vehicles, specialty service vehicles and more.
“This event is a great example of what can happen when community partners come together with a shared goal of supporting local families,” said United Way of Aroostook Executive Director Sarah Duncan. “By bringing so many resources together in one place, we make it easier for people to learn about services, ask questions and access support that can make a real difference for their households.”
In addition to the fun and family-friendly activities, the event helps ease the financial burden many families face as students return to school. Last month, CAAWHC and United Way of Aroostook hosted a Stuff the Bus event, collecting a busload backpacks and school supplies for local students who need them. These backpacks and school supplies will be distributed at the Back-to-School Bash to families who have registered in advance.
“Families can spend around $100 or more to purchase a backpack and all of the supplies a student needs for the school year,” CAAWHC CEO Jason Parent said. “Providing backpacks and school supplies to registered families helps reduce that expense and ensures more students start the year ready to learn.”
Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and enjoy a day filled with activities while learning about resources available throughout the region.
For more information about the Aroostook Back-to-School Bash, call (207) 764-3721 or email info@acap-me.org.
