PORT ANGELES — The Port Angeles School District, in partnership with Lutheran Community Services, will host the 14th annual Port Angeles Back to School Fair on Aug. 21 as an in-person event.
The fair will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jefferson Elementary, 218 E. 12th St., Port Angeles. Families within Port Angeles are invited to come out for it. The first day of school will be Sept. 1.
“The past two years, the back-to-school event was a drive-through distribution. This year, we are excited to return to an in-person event at Jefferson Elementary,” said Lisa Lyon, program manager for Lutheran Community Services.
“Almost 62 percent of students enrolled in Port Angeles schools are living below the poverty line,” she said.
“The Back to School Fair provides critical support to ensure all Port Angeles students receive the tools they need to be successful in school.”
Students in need will receive free backpacks stuffed with grade-specific school supplies, a barbecue lunch, healthcare resources, haircuts, clothes and community information.
“Last year, we handed out school supplies to over 750 students,” said Carmen Geyer, Port Angeles School District communications coordinator.
“This year we anticipate a greater number with the rise of inflation and the growing need for support in our district.”
This year’s volunteers and donors include the North Olympic Library System, Kiwanis Club of Port Angeles, Olympic Kiwanis of Port Angeles, Sound Community Bank, Steve Methner-State Farm Agency, Nor’Wester and Port Angeles Noon Rotary Clubs, Clallam County School Retirees Association and the Port Angeles Education Foundation.
“Without these sponsorships and support, this event could not happen year after year,” organizers said in a press release.
“The Back to School Fair is a wonderful opportunity for families to learn about the school system and our community’s programs and services while enjoying family-friendly activities, a barbecue lunch and entertainment,” said Geyer.
This year’s event will feature indoor and outdoor booths sponsored by local organizations and programs including North Olympic Healthcare Network, Olympic Community Action Program’s Head Start, Healthy Transitions, Community Healthplan of Washington, Olympic Peninsula Boys and Girls Clubs, Port Angeles Food Bank, United Healthcare Plan of Washington and PAVE, Geyer said.
Organizers are still seeking licensed hair stylists to cut hair. Those interested are asked to contact Geyer at 360-457-3703.