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Photos by Jessica Nohealapa’ahi
July 29, 2026
Back to School Bash serves 700 students
By Kelly Beedle
Hill Country Samaritans
The Lakehills Community Center was buzzing with excitement this weekend as hundreds of families from across the county gathered for the annual Back to School Bash. Co-sponsored by the Hill Country Samaritans and Bandera ISD, the event drew a crowd of nearly 1,400 attendees, marking another successful year of community partnership and preparation.
The primary mission of the day was clear: ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed in the upcoming academic year. Approximately 700 students received backpacks and bags packed with essential school supplies. This significant milestone was made possible through the generosity of donors and the tireless work of over a hundred volunteers who spent the weeks leading up to the bash preparing for the big day.
Beyond the distribution of supplies, the event functioned as a comprehensive resource hub for families. Students had free access to vital services on-site, including vision checks facilitated by the Lions Club, physicals financed by Lakehills Baptist Church, and haircuts by four amazing hairstylists donating their time.
"This is truly a community celebration," event organizers said. "It is our joy to provide a platform where neighbors can show kindness and build relationships across the county."
The atmosphere at the Lakehills Community Center was that of a great celebration, complete with a wide array of refreshments. To keep the crowd fueled throughout the afternoon, volunteers distributed more than 1,500 water bottles, 500 hot dogs, 200 sausages on a stick, and 100 ears of corn. Classic festival treats, including cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones, were also enjoyed by families throughout the day.
Entertainment and activities were abundant, ensuring there was something for everyone.
Attendees enjoyed the Happy Tails Petting Zoo, face painting, a bouncy house, and many tested their skills at the carnival games, the Cupcake Walk, and the "On the Farm" obstacle course. The Wild Wild West games and live music, Bandera High School drumline, cheer team, and Star Steppers added a festive flair to the event, with attendees walking away from the event with a variety of prizes.
As the evening concluded, the sense of unity and service remained the highlight of the day. The Bash once again showcased what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its youth, building the momentum and relationships necessary to ensure a bright start to the school year for students across the county.
The primary mission of the day was clear: ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed in the upcoming academic year. Approximately 700 students received backpacks and bags packed with essential school supplies. This significant milestone was made possible through the generosity of donors and the tireless work of over a hundred volunteers who spent the weeks leading up to the bash preparing for the big day.
Beyond the distribution of supplies, the event functioned as a comprehensive resource hub for families. Students had free access to vital services on-site, including vision checks facilitated by the Lions Club, physicals financed by Lakehills Baptist Church, and haircuts by four amazing hairstylists donating their time.
"This is truly a community celebration," event organizers said. "It is our joy to provide a platform where neighbors can show kindness and build relationships across the county."
The atmosphere at the Lakehills Community Center was that of a great celebration, complete with a wide array of refreshments. To keep the crowd fueled throughout the afternoon, volunteers distributed more than 1,500 water bottles, 500 hot dogs, 200 sausages on a stick, and 100 ears of corn. Classic festival treats, including cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones, were also enjoyed by families throughout the day.
Entertainment and activities were abundant, ensuring there was something for everyone.
Attendees enjoyed the Happy Tails Petting Zoo, face painting, a bouncy house, and many tested their skills at the carnival games, the Cupcake Walk, and the "On the Farm" obstacle course. The Wild Wild West games and live music, Bandera High School drumline, cheer team, and Star Steppers added a festive flair to the event, with attendees walking away from the event with a variety of prizes.
As the evening concluded, the sense of unity and service remained the highlight of the day. The Bash once again showcased what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its youth, building the momentum and relationships necessary to ensure a bright start to the school year for students across the county.