By Brandie Gay
The Second Annual Back to School Fair was a huge success. Families began arriving early, eager to take advantage of the resources available. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as children picked out new backpacks, notebooks, water bottles, and other school essentials. The joy on their faces was evident as they received brand-new shoes, ensuring they would step into the new school year with confidence.
In addition to school supplies, the fair offered free immunizations, a crucial service that helped ensure the health and safety of the community’s children. Local healthcare professionals from Pike County Memorial Hospital and the Vandalia Clinic, volunteered their time to administer vaccines, which provided peace of mind to some parents. Also, two barbers donated their time and provided free haircuts to the students. Sara Bybee did 20 haircuts and Harold did 10.
The success of the Back-to-School Fair was made possible by the overwhelming support from the Vandalia community. Local businesses donated supplies, while volunteers worked long hours to organize and run the event. The fair also featured free food, with hotdogs, chips, and water available to all attendees, which added to the festive atmosphere.
One of the event organizers, Tricia Lower, expressed her gratitude to all those who donated and volunteered their time.
“We are incredibly thankful for the generosity of our community,” she said. “This event would not have been possible without the support of our local businesses and volunteers. It’s heartwarming to see everyone come together for such a worthy cause.”
As the day ended, the success of the Back-to-School Fair could be seen in the smiles of the children and the gratitude from their parents.
The event not only provided essential supplies but also fostered a sense of unity and support within the community. With the success of this year’s fair, plans are already underway for next year’s event. The organizers hope to continue building on this momentum, ensuring that every child in Vandalia has the tools they need to succeed.
The organizers have planned to keep doing this event on the Saturday of the Tax-Free Weekend. With it being held on this day, not only will every family know when it’s to take place but also, if something is not available here, they still have time to go get the supplies they need and purchase them tax free.
The Back-to-School Fair in Vandalia, Mo., was more than just an event, to the people who live here, it was a celebration of community, generosity, and the shared goal in support of the next generation.
Editor’s note: Brandie Gay, the writer of this article, was one of the organizers for the Back to School Fair, as well as participating as a volunteer while it was running.