APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A Back to School Block Party in Appleton brought out families for free giveaways.
In addition to food and fun, students could get haircuts, vaccines, and school supplies all at no cost.
With over 500 hundred backpacks to give away, kids were able to prepare for school all while having fun.
“A lot of what we have going on has everything to do with black culture, that isn’t widely spread around our area, having black music and black entertainment. We wanted to bring it to Appleton in a healthy and fun way,” says Kristen Gondek, Executive Director for People of Progression.
Rain or shine, many people came out to the block party as well as organizations that benefit the community.
“The kids being able to engage with multicultural leaders is what really helps build their confidence,” says Gondek.
Dalene Johnson came with her non-profit organization Sistar Society that teaches young girls etiquette, hygiene, and more.
“We are teaching them how to be productive, we teach them finances, the basics on how to manage a checkbook. Those areas that little girls seem to have a hard time with maybe talking to their parents about,” says Johnson.
The kids were able to pick up their free backpacks and get their hair cut or braided at Taperz Barber shop.
“It’s definitely something that brings the community together. We got kids from all over the Fox Valley that come to this event, so it’s just good to see them all together in one place at one time,” says co-owner of Taperz Barber Shop and Barber Cainan Davenport.
Davenport tells FOX 11 he wants the kids to be able to feel special.
“This is mainly for when you think about the haircuts and braids it’s mainly for the marginalized community here.”
Davenport describes this as a confidence builder heading into the school year.
Many parents say this event was a huge help.
“It’s wonderful. I’m not a rich person so it’s nice to come down here and get some free school supplies,” says parent James Blair.
Taperz Barber shop expected to easily do just over a hundred haircuts and braids.
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