School may not even be out for the summer, but some in the community are already planning what children will need when they return to class in August.
The Prince William County Community Foundation (PWCCF) is gearing up for its fourth annual Back-to-School Community Event, anticipated to attract as many as 8,000 attendees, a significant increase from last year’s 6,000. This year’s event, scheduled for August 3, 2024, at Unity Reed High School near Manassas, will feature a substantial giveaway of over 3,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, up from 2,500 last year.
In a continued partnership, Sentara Health, through its Sentara Cares initiative, is contributing $25,000, marking its second year as the signature sponsor. This sponsorship extends beyond the event itself, supporting ongoing vaccine clinics in Prince William County Schools, which will run throughout the summer to ensure that students receive the necessary immunizations before the new school year begins.
Dr. Vanessa Gattis, founder, president, and CEO of the PWCCF, and a retired Army civil affairs veteran, highlighted the growth in community engagement. “Each year, we see more businesses and organizations step forward to support our mission. This not only helps us reach more families but also enhances our service offerings like the vaccine clinics and our food security programs,” she said.
Last year, PWCCF’s Combating Hunger on Wheels program, also known as the “CHOW Wagon,” celebrated a milestone by distributing its 10 millionth meal in the county. The foundation, known for its broad support of local public schools, veterans, seniors, and the homeless, continues to expand its outreach and impact.
Dr. Gattis emphasized the event’s holistic approach to community support: “It’s about more than just backpacks. Our goal is to prepare children for a dynamic year ahead in school, equipped not only with the necessary supplies but also with good health ensured through our vaccination efforts.”
Community members wishing to contribute can donate supplies to help stuff the backpacks or volunteer at the event. Details on donation drop-off locations and volunteer opportunities are available on the PWCCF website.
This year’s Community Back to School Event will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Unity Reed High School near Manassas.
Recent Stories
💰 The City of Manassas Park just dropped its proposed budget for FY2026, and let’s just say… your water, sewer, and stormwater fees are going up, but there’s a tiny silver lining when it comes to your real estate taxes.
Starting July 1, 2025, your monthly bills in Manassas will look a little different—mostly upward. The city is planning to raise utility rates and emergency service fees to support its budget for the next fiscal year.
A Tornado Watch is in effect for our area until midnight Friday, with the greatest risk for severe weather between 7 and 10 p.m. along the I-95 corridor. T
When talking about breweries and bike events, Harley-Davidson’s roar is usually involved, but at Red Dragon Brewery in Fredericksburg, their bike day involves pedal power.
The most anticipated night of the year is almost here! This Saturday, May 31, step into the romance, elegance, and charm of Paris—without ever leaving Washington, DC.
Join us for An Evening in Paris, an unforgettable soirée celebrating the best of French culture. Experience an immersive evening filled with gourmet French cuisine, refined wines, captivating live music, and the irresistible ambiance of the City of Light. Whether you’re a lifelong Francophile or simply love a night of sophistication, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.
✨ Highlights of the evening include:
Calling all WSHS Class of 1975 graduates! Our class has planned our 50-Year Class Reunion to be held September 26-28, 2025 in Woodbridge, Virginia. Reunion details and registration information are available to be sent to you.
To find out more, please email our reunion committee at [email protected]
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
