Aurora Community Back to School Bash Supports Local Families

Shawntaya Dell from Aurora, a mother of three, appreciates the support in getting school supplies for her children. She noted the significance of such help at the annual Aurora Community Back to School Bash, held at Wilder Park on Sunday.

“This event aids with school supplies, providing much-needed support,” Dell remarked as she joined hundreds in the park. She mentioned adjustments to the venue, highlighting the scenic river location.

The event, organized by Aurora Alderman Javier Banuelos of the 7th Ward, the African American Men of Unity, and the Community Center of Hometown, had originally been planned for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Wet conditions prompted the move to Wilder Park. The 3½-hour gathering featured music, bounce houses, community resources, free food, games, and importantly, school supplies.

The tradition dates back years, started by the late City Council member Scheketa Hart-Burns. Banuelos and others now oversee its organization. He remarked on the event’s popularity. “The crowd size matches last year’s,” he noted.

Despite initial plans to host at MLK Park for about 20 years, weather conditions required a last-minute location change. “We decided midday Saturday to switch locations due to the ground’s condition,” Banuelos explained. “The community still came out in large numbers, as communicated on social media.”

Banuelos emphasized the importance of assisting families with school supplies. “Not everyone can afford these materials. This event gives back to the community,” he stated. “Contributions from the East Aurora School District and personal sponsorship helped make this happen, with support from Main Baptist Church in Ward 7.”

The opening hour saw long lines for food and supplies, offering attendees like Ivan Ribas an opportunity to reflect on the venue’s benefit. “The change in location seems advantageous,” he shared. Events like this are crucial since many families struggle to afford essentials such as expensive book bags.

Many families now rely on this annual support. Kirsy Velasquez, waiting with her 10-year-old son Kairos Ortiz, expressed gratitude for the event’s relief. As a single mother with two children, she acknowledged the growing dependence on such community events.