GREENFIELD — As summer comes to a close, Franklin County’s YMCA is inviting local families to celebrate the new school year at its Back to School Bash on Sunday, Aug. 23, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the back parking lot behind the YMCA.
The free community event is designed to help students and families head back to school feeling confident, prepared and excited for the academic year ahead.
Offerings will include free backpacks (register at your-y.org), free haircuts, games and activities, music with DJ Lazer Chicken and gymnastics demonstrations. There will be information about the YMCA’s upcoming fall programs, as well as ice cream and snacks.
“Our Back to School Bash is about more than just school supplies,” Wesley Jackson, CEO of Franklin County’s YMCA, said in a statement. “It’s an opportunity to bring families together, celebrate our community and help students start the school year with confidence. We are grateful to the many businesses and organizations whose generosity makes this event possible.”
Contributing businesses include Gagne Wealth Management Group, Greenfield Cooperative Bank and Greenfield Savings Bank. Staff from Angel’s Edge Barbershop and The Siren Salon are donating their time by providing the free haircuts for students.
In addition, the Y has partnered with Lundgren Honda of Greenfield during its “Fill a Ridgeline” school supply drive through Aug. 15, helping collect supplies for local students.