Starting out with a ‘Bash’

  • Families enjoy various games on the lawn during the free event as well as a bounce house.
  • Families enjoy various games on the lawn during the free event as well as a bounce house.
  • Attendees wait to sign in and choose backpacks at the recent First Baptist Church Back to School Bash.
  • Families enjoy various games on the lawn during the free event as well as a bounce house.
  • Church member Toi Nicolet serves up snow cones to a line of kids.
  • First Baptist Church Pastor Patrick Embley delivers items from The Pantry at the church’s Back to School Bash.
  • First Baptist Church members (left to right) Roanna Ripple, Jacquie Stewart, Samantha Carbonell, Melissa Thomas and Bob Nicolet pose during the event with some of the backpack giveaways.

Jacksonville’s First Baptist Church hosts free back-to-school event for local families

By Kyla Hurt
Photos/Kyla Hurt

What a morning! First Baptist Church in Jacksonville held an opportunity-filled “Back to School Bash” from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, August 2 — and the event had a terrific turnout!

After people walked up to the welcome station, they were greeted by friendly faces and information. Each child was able to take his or her pick from the backpack giveaway table, and the backpacks were filled with various school supplies to take as well.

Volunteers helped give out hot dogs, freshly popped popcorn, snow cones and drinks in one area while the surrounding grassy area outside the church was filled with games, activities and a bounce house for entertainment. There were drawings for prizes and the chance for free haircuts, too.

“The Pantry” at First Baptist Church was also open that morning to assist families; as a part of the church’s community outreach, it helps to supply those in need with personal and household care items. The entire event was free for anyone to attend.

First Baptist Church is located at 1701 Mound Rd. in Jacksonville. Visit jacksonvillefirstbaptist.org to learn more.

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