Back-to-School-Bash provides tremendous services for students and families

Nonprofits from throughout the area joined together for a special event on Saturday. A Back-to-School Bash, held at the Branson United Methodist Church, provided some much-needed services for students heading off to school.

Organizations including Standing by the Door, Christian Action Ministries, Elevate Branson, House of Hope, The United Methodist Church. The Charis Group and the Taney County Health Department joined forces to put together a special day for area students.

Approximately 600 people—students and their parents—were in attendance. All enjoyed a hot dog lunch and played games such as ring toss and corn hole. Students picked up new backpacks, snacks and variety of other items, and families were given information about resources available to them throughout the community. Young ladies were treated to manicures, and all students were offered a haircut, just in time for the first day of school.

Carla Perry, Director of The Charis Group, explained that the Back-to-School Bash was a way for area ministries and nonprofits to love on the children and families in the community. Perry added that although there are many back-to-school events in the days leading up to the start of the new school year, one thing that sets this event apart is the fact that the students receive complimentary haircuts, which gives them a bit more self-confidence as they embark on a new school year.

This year's event marked the third year that the ministries, nonprofits and area organizations have teamed up for the very successful Back-to-School Bash.