The BEC Foundation and Bandera Electric Cooperative announced last week they donated a combined $9,000 to Hill Country Samaritans to help fund the nonprofit’s annual Back to School Bash, which provides backpacks and school supplies to students throughout Bandera County.
The BEC Foundation contributed $8,000, and Bandera Electric added $1,000 toward supplies for more than 1,000 students expected to participate this year.
The Back to School Bash is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lakehills Community Center.
More than 60 community groups are expected to participate, including the BEC Fiber team, which will be distributing items at the event.
“Every child should be properly equipped for the school year, regardless of their financial status,” said Toba Wright, president of the BEC Foundation. “Having two kids of my own in Bandera ISD, this hits close to home.”
Wright presented the donation on behalf of both organizations and joined other volunteers on-site to help assemble backpacks.
“I will always lend a hand where I can,” she said.
The event is open to all Bandera County residents.
While backpacks and supplies are reserved for students enrolled in local public, private, or homeschool programs, the broader event is free and open to the public.
“This is truly a community- powered event,” said Kelly Beedle, a representative of Hill Country Samaritans. “We’re so thankful for those participating by funding, volunteering and showing up. We expect to reach students from every corner of the county.”
Hill Country Samaritans hosts several community-focused initiatives each year, including a free Thanksgiving meal and the annual Walk Through Bethlehem event in December.
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