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Watauga Back 2 School Festival Aug. 12 Volunteers & Hairstylists Needed to Meet Demand

The fifth annual Watauga County Back 2 School Festival is fast approaching but help is still needed to make it a success. Festival organizers are still seeking volunteers to work that day and professional stylists to provide haircuts to children.

“The average cost per child for back to school supplies is $150, and that doesn’t include clothes, shoes, or haircuts.’ says Back 2 School Festival coordinator Kendra Sink. “With over 32 percent of Watauga County residents living in poverty, this event makes a big difference in the lives of local families.”

The festival, presented by Mast General Store, ECRS, Boone Optimist Club, The Winkler Organization, 4 Forty Four Builders, High South Event Professionals and La Tortilleria, makers of Purple Crow Authentic Mexican food, will take place Saturday, August 12th at the Watauga County High School from 10:00 a. m. to 2:00 p.m. Registration is not required to attend the festival.

Any Watauga County or Two Rivers Community School family struggling with the financial demands of back to school shopping is invited to come to this free festival. The festival will offer backpacks, school supplies, shoes, professional haircuts, book giveaways, Goodwill gift cards, activity booths, helpful resources and lunch provided by Mellow Mushroom.

The Back 2 School Festival, started in 2013 as a collaborative effort between The Children’s Council, Western Youth Network, Hospitality House, Quiet Givers and more seeks to streamline local school readiness efforts in order to have a greater impact on the community. It was designed to serve any family struggling to afford the high costs of back-to-school shopping in a fun, dignified and respectful environment. Their goal is for all kids to start school feeling confident and prepared for the year ahead.

Interested volunteers can register here https://www.back2schoolfestival.org/volunteer/ and those wishing to cut hair can register here https://www.back2schoolfestival.org/cut-hair/

For more information or to make a financial contribution please visit https://www.back2schoolfestival.org/