Fifth Back to School Bash is biggest yet

The Fifth Annual “Back to School Bash” had hundreds of students heading to Harvey High School in Painesville just a bit early, actually, weeks before the official beginning of school.

But this bash wasn’t reminiscent of homecomings or proms. No, this one actively engaged the entire county, delivering valuable and much needed services to families and students alike.

The event, co-sponsored with Lake County Jobs and Family Services, along with support from the Salvation Army, in addition to the many other contributors, offers clothes distribution, haircuts, dental checkups, immunizations, sports screenings, free books, free family

photographs, lunches and a food market.

By 9 a.m., the high school was packed, said Suzanne Casar, coordinator at Lake County Family and Children First Council in Painesville.

“Several years ago a need was identified to help families with back to school essentials; families that may not have the financial means to obtain them. And every year, we’ve continued to grow. This free, community-wide event is open to all of Lake County, not just students in Painesville City (Local) Schools.

“We’re so grateful to the many organizations who contribute to our success, providing resources of all kinds. We really appreciate the work they do and the help they give us, our volunteers, too. They are great people, and we all want to ensure all the kids start off the school year successfully. We’ve seen over 1,000 attendees and more keep coming.”

Jennie Best, program manager for Leadership Lake County, said more and more students themselves are taking the reins, helping to organize and distribute backpacks and bags of various school supplies at the Painesville Salvation Army.

“We have high school students from all over Lake County staying and working in shifts. It’s great, because it connects them to the community. In addition to the high school group, we also have a middle school group, Youth Leadership Academy, and an adult group for anyone who works or lives in Lake County. Youth Leadership Academy raised over $5,000.”

Volunteer Jeff Thompson and his 10-year-old son, Nathanael, Madison Township residents, believe the event instills a spirit of giving back.

“It’s what we believe in,” Thompson said. “We’re all one step away from needing it. A lot of people are hurting, so why not take the time to lend them a hand? It feels good to give back, too. We saw this opportunity on a flyer around town and called immediately.”

Salvation Army Board Member Asa Cox agreed with Casar regarding the event’s growth.

“I’ve been involved 8 years, 6 of which I’ve been partnered with Salvation Army,” she said. “I remember when we had 50 children, this year we’re at 2,000. They really look forward to this day. It’s an awesome thing. Anyone who needs help after this ends can call me at 440-479-3100.”

Child development director Donna Bullis extended gratitude to the entire community, adding the “Back to School Bash” wouldn’t be possible without the many generous contributions of others.

“We have a vision for families,” she said, “a vision where they can get everything done in one day, from physicals to vaccines, all the services they need. Many times family members have to take days off of work to be able to do many of these things. The bash allows them to access so much in a central setting, whether here at Salvation Army or Harvey High School.”

The event’s popularity even had students lined up to climb in the dentist’s chair, arguably something most kids aren’t too eager to do.

“All the hygienists are from Lakeland, including alumni and recent graduates,” said Jenn Barr, director of the dental hygiene program at the college.

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