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By Teresa Steinmetz –
The Salvation Army in Oregon’s North Portland community coordinated a resource fair Aug. 22 for the community as families prepared to send their kids back to school.
The Back-to-School Bash connected 200 people, including parents and students, with backpacks, school supplies and community resources. Plus, information about The Salvation Army Moore Street Corps and Community Center’s services, from food assistance, to athletics programs, youth activities and Christmas services.
Upon arrival, families checked in at the front desk and received a punch card for the event. After that, they visited areas and booths around the facility to earn a punch on the card. When completed, they turned their completed punch card in for a prize.
“Our goal was to connect parents and students with the resources they need for the upcoming school year—especially middle school and high school-aged kids,” said Captain Angel Marquez, Corps Officer at The Salvation Army Moore Street Corps. “We have noticed that younger students generally have more support available to them, so we want to make sure that all students—no matter their age—are able to be helped this year. This is why we are so excited to bring together community partners who have a common mission: to provide kids with the foundation they need to do well in school this year and for years to come.”
Throughout the tour of the corps, many community members mentioned that they have learned something new about The Salvation Army’s services that are available to them or someone they may know. The kids were especially excited to learn about the various trade schools, as well as the prizes and the new backpacks.
Community partners for the event included: Big Village Coalition, TriMet Transit Police, The Salvation Army Camp Kuratli at Trestle Glen, Medical Teams International’s Dental Program, Portland Community College, Portland Parks & Recreation, Rotarian Action Group for Peace, the Sheet Metal Institute, Portland Youth for Christ, Oregon Youthline, North Central City Life, Portland Police Bureau, Union Carpenter Apprenticeship Program, Portland Fire & Rescue, and Haircuts by Hands of Favor.
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