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Next to the site of Mountain Comprehensive Care Center at 123 N. Main Street, Depot Street was abuzz on Tuesday evening. 

The Mountain Comprehensive Care Center Back 2 School Bash occurred for the second straight year, with many community partners in various fields present from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. 

“We have all kinds of different activities for the kids,” said Amie Moore, a Clinic Director at MCCC who helped organize the event. “[It’s] just a good time this evening for the kids and for trying to get them ready for [going] back to school.” 

For most schools, the first day won’t come until mid-August. 

With events such as Tuesday nights’, they’ll have plenty of resources to help them prepare. 

A variety of boys’ and girls’ clothing items, including shirts, pants, shorts, and socks, could be selected. 

For entertainment, a variety of games, including ring toss and hula hoops, along with crafts allowing students to paint, color, and more, were present. 

Along with family resource coordinators from various Clark County Public Schools and fellow staff from MCCC, organizations such as Elite Martial Arts, Clark County Youth Athletics, New Vista, Clark Energy Cooperative, Clark County Health Department, Clark Regional Medical Center, and HomePlace Clinic attended. 

Many of the local community partners gave away items that will be helpful for the kids’ education. 

For example, the Clark County Public Library was offering free books and bags of school supplies, including pencils, erasers, glue, and more. 

“We’re just spreading awareness about the library and the programs we offer. [We’re] trying to get people interested in reading and learning again,” said Beth Centner, a youth desk worker at Clark County Public Library. 

Asked what was rewarding about the experience for her, Centner elaborated. 

“I’ve seen a lot of families that we see at the library,” she said. “[We’re] making connections.” 

Organizations from outside the immediate area arrived as well. 

Among them were PhilanthroPT and the University of Louisville Peace Hospital. 

“My hospital…helps a lot with children and adolescents. We offer behavioral health services,” said Outreach Coordinator Jerian Petry. “It’s essential for us to be a part of the community and show our support and information…to parents.” 

Those who attended could even indulge in food and drink, with Cookies & Cream present and free pizza being offered. 

At day’s end, Moore remained confident in the event’s objective. 

“It’s for the kids,” she said. “We don’t do it for anyone other than the kids and just seeing the smiles on their faces.”