GARY, IND. – First Lady Crystal Melton, in collaboration with the City of Gary and a host of generous sponsors, is thrilled to announce the inaugural citywide Back-to-School Fest. This highly anticipated event will take place at the Gary RailCats Stadium on August 10, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and promises to be a day filled with essential services, fun activities, and valuable resources for students and families in the Gary community.
“I am delighted to introduce the Back-to-School Fest to Gary,” said First Lady of Gary Crystal Melton. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together and help our students kick off a successful academic year.” Mrs. Melton, wife of Mayor Eddie Melton, has been a passionate advocate for education and community engagement, and this event exemplifies her commitment to supporting local families.
Event Highlights:
- FREE Haircuts: Professional barbers will be on-site to provide free haircuts to students. Parents are required to give consent, and students must have clean hair for this service.
- FREE Immunizations: The fest will offer on-site immunizations, provided parents or guardians bring their children’s current immunization records, if available.
- FREE Uniform Vouchers: Students from Gary and Calumet Township will be eligible to receive uniform vouchers. Parents or guardians must be present with proper identification to avail of this benefit.
- FREE Giveaways: A variety of essential items, including backpacks, school supplies, sneakers, and gift cards, will be distributed. Giveaways will start at 10 a.m. and continue while supplies last. It is important to note that prior registration does not guarantee receipt of items, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.
- FREE Food: Concession stands within the Gary RailCats stadium will offer free food to attendees from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- FREE Resources: Parents and guardians can access valuable resources, including voter registration, information about after-school programs, and the opportunity to participate in a special raffle.
- FREE Fun: The event will feature entertainment options for students, including games, nail painting, face painting, and music provided by DJ All Owt.
- FREE Transportation: The Gary Public Transportation Corporation (GPTC) will offer complimentary rides to the stadium for students and their parents or guardians attending the Back-to-School Fest, available from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
First Lady Crystal Melton emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “I want to ensure that every student and parent starts the new school year fully prepared. By centralizing resources for families, we’re making back-to-school preparation hassle-free for both parents and students. I would also like to thank our sponsors for their support. Without them, the Back-to-School Fest wouldn’t be possible. Their unwavering support ensures that our students have the resources they need to thrive.”
The event is supported by a coalition of sponsors dedicated to the community’s well-being, including:
- Geminus Corporation
- The Indiana Department of Child Services Lake County
- Comcast
- Haywood and Fleming Associates
- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Gary Public Transportation Corporation
- Northwest Indiana Health Disparities Council
- Puma
- Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
- Brown Skin Coffee Wine and Tea
Parents and guardians are reminded that prior registration for the event does not guarantee admission. Once the event reaches capacity, additional attendees will not be permitted entry. Early arrival is highly recommended to ensure participation and access to all resources and supplies. Students must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian to receive any services or supplies.
The Back-to-School Fest reflects the Melton family’s dedication to community service and education, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of Gary’s residents. This event not only provides essential resources for the new school year but also fosters a sense of unity and support within the community.–News Desk