As the start of the new school year approaches, the Webster Parish School Board is preparing for two annual events designed to help students begin the year ready for success.
The first is the Pack the Bus school supply drive, which will be held Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, at the Minden Walmart, 1379 Homer Road, and the Springhill Walmart, 1920 S. Arkansas St. The following weekend, the school board will host its 18th Annual Back-to-School Bash on August 2.
Pack the Bus gives community members an opportunity to donate school supplies that will be distributed to Webster Parish students before classes begin. This year, volunteers from United Way of Northwest Louisiana will join Webster Parish School Board staff in collecting donations at both Walmart locations.
Donations will be accepted Friday, July 24, from 4 to 7 PM and Saturday, July 25, from 8 to 11 AM.
The partnership will continue with the Back-to-School Bash from 3 to 6 PM on August 2. Families will be able to receive school supplies, connect with community organizations, learn about programs and services that support student success throughout the year, and even receive free haircuts. United Way of Northwest Louisiana will also host a community resource table featuring information on local services available to children and families.
Organizers said the collaboration brings together volunteers, educators, donors, and community organizations to help ensure Webster Parish students have the supplies and resources they need before the first day of school.