Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Back-to-school events offer help for families gearing up for classes

In this Aug.17, 2016, file photo, Cerenity Pippin, 5,  accompanied by her aunt, Tara Richards, center, points to  her choice of a pink backpack, held by volunteer Ann Treffry at the Salvation Army center. More than 5,000 school backpacks filled with school supplies will be distributed at a back-to-school giveaway on Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2018, at the Salvation Army, 222 E. Indiana Ave. (Jesse Tinsley / The Spokesman-Review)

School days are right around the corner, triggering several events focused on helping parents outfit their children with appropriate supplies, clothes and community resources.

On Aug. 16 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m the Salvation Army is putting on its annual back-to-school event in its gym at 222 E. Indiana Ave. The main event is distribution of backpacks to children in grades K through 12, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Children must be with a parent or guardian and the grownup must have a current photo ID and proof that the child is living in the household (for instance, a school registration or a DSHS statement).

There are lots of other resources available at the Salvation Army that day, including local sports mascots who will make surprise appearances for photos. For more information call (509) 325-6810.

Unity in the Community is on Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Clocktower Meadow in Riverfront Park. This year’s event will begin with a short parade at 9 a.m. before moving into the park. There will be a cultural village, music and other performances as well as free K-8 school supplies and bicycle helmets, while supplies last. For more information go to www.nwunity.org.

The Back to School Bash, which features live performances, children’s activities and a resource fair focused on families with school-age children, is on Friday from 4-8 p.m. at NorthTown Mall and on Aug. 25 from 4-8 p.m. at Spokane Valley Mall.