Community Event Offers Crucial Back-to-School Support in Aurora

Shawntaya Dell from Aurora is preparing her three children for the new school year. She appreciates the assistance in covering the cost of school supplies. ‘This event is going to help with getting the school supplies and stuff – it’s definitely some extra help,’ Dell remarked while attending the Aurora Community Back to School Bash at Wilder Park on Sunday afternoon. ‘I know they had to move this from another location, but we’re by the river and it’s pretty nice. I know I’m going to be here awhile looking at the lines.’

The event, initially planned for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, was shifted due to soggy conditions to Wilder Park. Sponsors included Aurora Ald. Javier Banuelos of the 7th Ward, the African American Men of Unity, and the Community Center of Hometown. The 3½-hour event featured music, bounce houses, community resource tables, free food, games, and, most importantly, school supplies.

The annual event began years ago under the leadership of the late Scheketa Hart-Burns, a long-standing City Council member for the 7th Ward. It now continues with Banuelos and others. Banuelos noted the event’s ongoing popularity, ‘We had a big crowd last year, but this one is also big.’

The event traditionally takes place at MLK Park, a tradition spanning 20 years. This year’s move was necessary due to unsuitable ground conditions at the original site. ‘We decided about midday on Saturday to change locations. We figured the vendors wouldn’t be able to set up on the ground there but people certainly have found us. We posted it on social media,’ Banuelos stated.

Banuelos emphasized the necessity of providing families with school supplies. ‘People have come to rely on this and it’s something great for the community. Not everybody has the ability to get supplies and we’re also able to give something back,’ he explained. Contributions came from the East Aurora School District, Main Baptist Church in Ward 7, and personal sponsorships from Banuelos.

Attendees lined up early for food and supplies. Ivan Ribas from Aurora reflected on the venue change and the bash’s significance. ‘I heard on social media that this wasn’t going to be in our neighborhood but this might be a blessing in disguise. We have a good location and they made it work,’ said Ribas. He observed, ‘These events help people. There are families here and there that can’t get that extra notebook or don’t have the means. Book bags these days are almost $80.’

Kirsy Velasquez, also at the event with her son Kairos Ortiz, 10, shared her thoughts. ‘I think more families are depending on this. For me, I need the supplies and the backpacks and hopefully not need to buy anything,’ she said, noting her challenges as a single mom. ‘I am a single mom and have two children – high school and a younger one. The younger one needs more things.’

The Aurora Community Back to School Bash continues to be a valuable resource for many families, providing essential supplies and fostering community spirit.