Three Back to School bashes set for Lincoln Co.

Northwest Montana United Way will hold three Back 2 School Bashes in Lincoln Co. this month.

These free community events are dedicated to helping students start the school year prepared, confident and ready to learn. 

School-aged children are invited to receive a free backpack filled with essential school supplies, while supplies last. 

Backpacks will include items such as notebooks, paper, pencils, pens, crayons, markers, folders, scissors, glue sticks and many other classroom essentials to help students begin the school year ready for success.

The first is in Troy on Thursday, Aug. 13, Eureka on Saturday, Aug. 15 and Libby on Wednesday, Aug. 19.

The Troy event will be held at the Troy Activity Center, 629 E. Missoula Ave., from 10 a.m. to noon.

The Eureka event will be held at the Lincoln County High School, 340 Ninth St. East, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Libby event will be held at the Memorial Events Center, 111 E. Lincoln Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In addition to receiving school supplies, families will have the opportunity to connect with local nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, educational resources and community partners offering valuable services and programs that support children and families throughout the year.

"Our goal is simple. No child should begin the school year feeling unprepared because of financial hardship," said Jodie Cross, executive director of Northwest Montana United Way. "When we invest in our children, we're investing in the future of our entire community."

The Back 2 School Bash is expected to serve approximately 1,800 students through events held across Northwest Montana. The program is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, foundations, organizations, volunteers and individual donors who believe every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed.

Northwest Montana United Way is working to raise the remaining funds needed to fully supply every child expected to attend this year's events. 

People or businesses interested in sponsoring the Back 2 School Bash, donating school supplies, or making a financial contribution are encouraged to contact Northwest Montana United Way.

For more information, call 406-752-7266.