Indigenous Cultures Institute preps for back to school bash

LOCAL EVENTS

What began in Summer 2022 as an effort to assist families coming out of COVID and attempting to recover from the economic impact, has now become an annual event to provide school supplies, family resources and fun activities for local families. The fourth Annual Back To School Bash will take place Sunday, Aug. 3 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Cuauhtemoc Hall, located at 1100 Patton Street. Backpacks are first come first serve and students must attend to receive them.

“We understood that family finances were being stretched during those difficult economic times, and we wanted to provide some support,” Maria Rocha, ICI elder and co-Founder, said. “We provided 200-plus backpacks and school supplies for students who attended the event. This effort was sig- nificant for our local parents, many who were struggling to provide basic needs for their families.”

Each subsequent year the number of backpacks increased to meet the community’s need, with 350 backpacks distributed in 2024.

“ICI recognized that vacation plans and local outings are not affordable for many families, so ICI partnered with LoteriaFest and included Loteria games with prizes, art activities, music and dance performances for multi-generational families to enjoy themselves,” Bobbie Garza-Hernandez, ICI community pilam, said. “Families enjoy gathering in community to play this century- old Mexican game that is a tradition.”

In addition to the current undertaking of building an Indigenous Cultures Center, ICI continues its extensive Summer programming and is gearing up to host this years’ event in partnership with La Sociedad Mutualista Cuauhtemoc, LoteriaFest and the many public and private partners that have recognized the community’s need and are stepping up to help lighten the burden for families.

To provide supplies or monetary donations to this event, email [email protected]; event organizers have a link for those who want to sign up.