The Barnabas Connection held its nineteenth Back-to-School Fiesta this August, a testament to the unwavering support of local community members, businesses and churches, as well as the efforts of 100 volunteers. A total of 480 students received brand-new backpacks with all the necessary supplies to start the school year off on the right foot.
“The Back-to-School Fiesta is one of the longest-running and most impactful programs of Barnabas Connection,” said Kate Sowell, Director of Barnabas Connection. “Allowing each child to choose a new backpack that they love, that fits their personal style, is essential for starting the year off on the right foot. We prioritize providing backpacks that are both trendy and high-quality and we can achieve this thanks to the generous donations from our community.”
This year’s Back-to-School Fiesta featured more than 15 nonprofits and other resources from the Wimberley Valley and Hays County. Among them was the Wimberley Valley Lions Club, which conducted vision screenings for 104 children, including 18 who were referred for comprehensive examinations. Additionally, 20 adults requested SPOT vision checks, and five of these adults received referrals based on the results.
Dr. Davi Williams and his entire staff were present to provide free dental check-ups and distribute dental hygiene kits. Wimberley ISD was also wellrepresented, with representatives from transportation, food services and translation services available to assist families with forms and school district applications.
This support helped ensure a smoother start to the school year for many families, who expressed their gratitude for having their questions answered and concerns addressed before the year began.
Parents had the opportunity to learn more about local food resources from organizations like Amigos de Jesus and Fig Tree. At the same time, Community Action, Communicare, and the Hill Country Women’s Health Care Collective set up booths to share information about their various programs and resources for families and women.
“When we come together as a community and support the entire family system, students in the Wimberley Valley can thrive,” said Sowell.
To learn more about the Barnabas Connection, visit barnabasconnects. org or email director@ barnabasconnects. org.
