Back-to-school event offers free supplies to families in need

As families begin preparing for the back-to-school season, one organization is ensuring students have the supplies they need and some fun along the way.

Hosted by Aglow International Matteson Single Moms, the annual Back to School Festival features games, face painting, food and a school supply giveaway for the 2023-24 school year. The event is set for 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Richton Park Community Center, 4455 Saulk Trail, Richton Park.

Created in 2012, Aglow International Matteson Single Moms hosts a wide range of events for area single mothers, including spa days and other activities. The Back to School Festival evolved from those events, in an effort to offer something just for the children.

"It's a fun day for the kids," said Lisa White, Director of Marketing for Aglow International Matteson Single Moms. "We're doing a taco truck and we're going to have games and prizes. It's a chance to come out and get the free supplies but also have some family time in celebration of back-to-school."

White said the event fills a vital need for single moms in the community.

"We have so many parents - moms in particular who need help," White said. "When you can give a person hope that does so much for the community at large."

Among the sponsors making the Back to School Festival possible are Gerald Toyota and Gerald Honda of Matteson.

"It's wonderful having Gerald as a sponsor," White said. "The community is not just individual households but also local businesses. Having the support of Gerald means so much. We couldn't do this without them."

Gerald Toyota and Gerald Honda are proud to support youth in the community through events such as the Back to School Festival.

"School supplies can be expensive, and we are pleased to be able to help ease the burden for local families," said Donna Lawler of the Gerald Auto Group. "Plus, the Back-to-School Festival is such a fun day for the kids. We're proud to sponsor this event each year and love the positive impact it has on the community."

Cost to attend the fest is $5 per family. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/back-to-school-supply-giveaway-tickets-672633052567.

For more information on Aglow International Matteson Single Moms, visit www.aglowsinglemoms.org. For more information on Gerald Toyota and Honda of Matteson, visit www.geraldcars.com.