Shawntaya Dell, an Aurora resident, is preparing her three children for the new school year. She appreciates receiving help with school supply costs. ‘This event helps significantly with school supplies,’ she said. Dell joined many others at Wilder Park in Aurora for the annual Aurora Community Back to School Bash.

The event, sponsored by Ald. Javier Banuelos of the 7th Ward, the African American Men of Unity, and the Community Center of Hometown, originally scheduled at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, moved to Wilder Park due to soggy conditions. The bash featured music, bounce houses, community resource tables, free food, games, and importantly, school supplies.

The event was initiated years ago by the late Scheketa Hart-Burns, a longtime City Council member for the 7th Ward. Now, Banuelos and others continue her legacy.

Banuelos mentioned the event’s continued popularity. ‘This year is also drawing a big crowd,’ he said. Initially planned for MLK Park, organizers decided to relocate due to wet grounds. They used social media to inform the community about the change.

Banuelos emphasized the event’s importance in helping families with school supplies. ‘This event is crucial for many. Not everyone can afford school supplies, and giving back is rewarding,’ he commented. Contributions came from the East Aurora School District and support from Main Baptist Church in Ward 7.

Ivan Ribas, another Aurora resident, reflected on the venue change’s positive aspects. ‘The new location works well. These events aid families that struggle to buy necessities like notebooks or expensive backpacks,’ Ribas remarked. He believes it’s particularly tough for families with multiple children.

Kirsy Velasquez brought her son, Kairos Ortiz, aged 10, to the event. ‘This is a much better way to secure supplies. As a single mother with two children, I rely on this to meet our needs,’ she said. Velasquez noted that many families increasingly depend on such support.

David Sharos contributed to this report as a freelance correspondent for The Beacon-News.