KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A back-to-school traditon in Kalamazoo will continue this year, but at a new location.
Family Health Center’s Back To School Bash this year will be held at Western Michigan University Friday, August 14. The organization says the move comes out of a new partnership to strengthen the community’s focus on school readiness as part of the path to college and career success.
This year’s Bash will run from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., at WMU’s Kanley Track, 1903 West Michigan Avenue, between Read Fieldhouse and Waldo Stadium.
Families can enjoy carnival rides, games, prizes, healthy food, personal care kits, and backpacks with school supplies. Community service agencies will also be on hand with information on their programs.
“Moving to WMU brings a breath of fresh air to the Bash,” said Family Health Center CEO Denise Crawford. “Not only will families have more room for fun and celebration, but they’ll also experience the amazing atmosphere of a college campus, where hopes and dreams become lifelong realities.”
As before, well-child checks are required to attend the Bash but will not be available at the WMU location. Crawford urges families to register for the Bash and schedule well-child exams and dental screenings as soon as possible. Well-child exams have expanded and are now available to all children ages 3 through 15.
Appointments are available at both FHC locations: 117 West Paterson Street, or 505 East Alcott Street up to the day of the Bash. While some exams may be offered on the day of the Bash, those will take place only at the Paterson clinic.
To register for the Back To School Bash and schedule a well-child check, call (269) 488-0805.
This year’s Bash is the first event in a collaboration announced last month by The Kalamazoo Promise, FHC, Kalamazoo Public Schools, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and WMU. It grew out of data showing that students who are medically prepared for school have better attendance and graduation rates, especially among historically at-risk and under-resourced families.
FHC launched the Back To School Bash in 2009 to make sure children are medically prepared to attend school without delay at the beginning of each school year. The event has served over 20,000 children in the past 17 years, greatly increasing the number of students starting school on time.
Free parking will be available near Kanley Track during the Back To School Bash. Also, a shuttle service is planned between FHC’s Paterson Street campus and the Bash, provided by Kalamazoo Public Schools.
For details and registration information, visit www.fhckzoo.com or call (269) 488-0805.
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