HCS will host the 5th Annual Back to School Party on August 6th

To celebrate and kick off the 2022-23 school year, Hamilton County Schools will host their fifth annual Back to School Party this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the First Horizon Pavilion. Participating families will receive a free backpack and school supplies while supplies last. Attendees will enjoy performances and fun activities from area school and community groups.

The families present will have the opportunity to participate in many activities and learn more about community resources such as:

? Learn and have fun: Enjoy a mini-literacy festival featuring activities and learning resources with HCS educators and community partners like the Chattanooga Library and Read 20; ArtsBuild will have an interactive art exhibit; The Chattanooga Zoo will have an animal-focused STEM activity; The Good News Club will offer face painting; and more.

? Health and Wellness: BlueCare Tennessee will offer screening exams to BlueCare student members; Hamilton County Health Department, Health Connect America, Cempa Community Care, LifeSpring Community Health and others will provide health resources for families; Scenic City Therapy Pets will have therapy dogs on site; and Operation Get Active will have an inflatable soccer field for kids.

? Resources: There will be many community resources for families available at the event, from energy assistance programs to employment opportunities.

? Food: The YMCA will provide packed lunches for the children and the Greater Emmanuel Church will host a barbecue for the families.

Food trucks will also be there to complete the food offer.

This event is made possible through the sponsorship and partnership of BlueCare Tennessee, UTC, McNabb Center, Top Flight and the support of over 45 other community partner organizations.

Families do not need to register to attend. School supplies and activities will be available while supplies last. Free parking is only available in the parking lot immediately surrounding the First Horizon Pavilion. Other paying car parks are available nearby.

Families can visit www.hcde.org/firstdayready for more information about the event and other First Day Ready resources.