Missouri City families heading into the new school year can pick up free school supplies, food support and something harder to find: a one-on-one consultation about their child's special education plan.
The Ready, Set, Thrive! Back-to-School Health & Community Resource Fair runs Saturday, Aug. 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at Carey's Frozen Delights, 2603 Cartwright Rd. Everything is free.
The Missouri City Chamber Education Foundation is hosting the event alongside The Bridge Pantry and Texas Cops & Communities. Event organizer Shell McClue said businesses, nonprofits and community members can still get involved by contacting her at 346-552-1623 or [email protected]. Educational Alignment Consulting and We Love The Kids Inc. are also partnering.
What's available
The fair offers school and teacher supplies, clothing, hygiene products, kids giveaways and community resource tables, all on a first-come basis while supplies last.
Educational Alignment Consulting will provide free IEP consultations on-site, walking families through special education supports, services and next steps. For parents unfamiliar with the Individualized Education Program process, the consultations offer a chance to ask questions before the school year begins.
The Bridge Pantry, a Missouri City food and stabilization support organization on Cypress Point Drive, will distribute food assistance at the event.
Donations needed
Organizers are collecting in-kind donations for The Bridge Pantry ahead of the fair. The wish list includes non-perishable food, hygiene products, school and teacher supplies, student and family clothing, bottled water, snacks, gift cards and kids giveaways. Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at The Bridge Pantry, 2714 Cypress Point Dr. A.
Vendors welcome
Businesses and nonprofits can set up a table at no cost. In lieu of a fee, vendors are asked to bring a food pantry donation and provide a kid-friendly giveaway, activity or family resource.
To participate, sponsor or donate, families and vendors can reach McClue at [email protected] or visit the Chamber Education Foundation's event page to RSVP.
