THATCHER — There are multiple opportunities upcoming for Gila Valley parents to get what their children need for heading back to school events.
On Saturday, July 13, the Graham County Substance Abuse Coalition will present the 15th annual Graham County Back-to-School Resource Fair. Taking place at Eastern Arizona College’s AP Building, from 8-11 a.m., the Back-to-School Resource Fair will feature information on services available to families in the Gila Valley, as well giveaways of needed school supplies and clothing for all ages from the event partners, including:
- Mount Graham Regional Medical Center
- Arizona @ Work
- First Things First
- United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties
- Canyonlands Healthcare
- Community Medical Services
- Tucson Medical Center SafeKids
- Small Business Development Center at EAC
- St. Vincent de Paul Society
- Great Communities Resource Center (GCRC)
- Southeastern Arizona Health Education Center (SEAHEC)
- Safford Lions Club
- Child and Family Resources
- GFWC Woman’s Club of Safford
- Graham County
- University of Arizona
- Eastern Arizona College
Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and while supplies last.
Expectant parents can also receive a free car seat. To register for the pre-requisite training call 928-428-8590.
There are also two back-to-school events scheduled for Saturday, July 20.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Angel’s Closet, at 425 E. 4th Street in Safford, will be making children’s clothing and shoes available for free, thanks to support from the community, the Light the World Giving Machines and Freeport-McMoRan employee donations.
Then, from 4-8 p.m., Multi-Vendor Events will present the Back-to-School Bash in the parking lot of Tractor Supply in Thatcher. There will be giveaways, a back-to-school raffle, activities for the kids, vendors and more.
There is no cost to attend any back-to-school event and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Safford schools move to a four-day school week with the first day of school Wednesday, July 24. Fort Thomas schools first day is Tuesday, Aug. 6, and Pima and Thatcher start Wednesday, Aug. 7.
