Hundreds of students got a head start on the school year at Baldwin’s Back to School Bash. Over 450 people attended the Saturday afternoon event.
The gathering at Life Church attracted families from across Habersham County. They came for an afternoon of free food and fun, free haircuts, and school supplies.
Baldwin leaders say they sponsored this year’s event to help give families a break on back-to-school costs.
“I am over the moon excited about the turnout. This has exceeded expectations,” Council member Stephanie Almagno told Now Habersham.
Life Church Lead Pastor Bob Petty said he was thrilled by the opportunity to serve the community.
”I think it’s incredible that we are able to give to the community. We have a saying here, ‘Be in Jesus’ skin for the community,'” Petty said.
Mason Wilson was the first “shopper” at the Back to School Bash. He stated that he felt “good” getting his school supplies for next week. His mother, Laura Simmemon, expressed her relief at getting the needed supplies.
”Maybe it’s almost over. It’s a headache,” she said, adding that her family needs the financial assistance these types of events afford. ”My husband got sick last year and he lost a leg and half of another one, and so he has been out of work for the last year. This helped.”
Baldwin Elementary School Principal Rodney Long was on hand for the Bash as well, assisting where and when he could and greeting parents and students.
”I’m excited to no end what Life Church and the city of Baldwin is doing to help our kids. This is something! Not only does it help the kids, but it also brings our community together. It’s just great to see the community come together, not only for our kids but the school. The kids are excited to come back to school.” Principal Long added, ”It makes my heart feel good to see the community come behind our kids and support them.”
Angela Parson and her husband brought their three children to the bash to get their school supplies for the coming school year.
“It’s a tremendous help. Me and my husband both work full-time jobs and don’t really have the time nor the means to do this. It’s a tremendous help in every way.”
”We remain grateful to all sponsors who donated funds and supplies to make the event a possibility, and we thank Life Church for allowing the generous use of their facilities.”
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office is sponsoring a similar event for county students on Tuesday, August 1. Their School Supply Giveaway is scheduled from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Habersham County Fairgrounds off Hwy. 17 in Clarkesville.
The first day of public school for Habersham County students is Friday, August 4.
