Community Back to School Bash

Get ready for the new school year at the Community Back to School Bash, a free event offering school essentials, health services, and family resources all in one place. Hosted by Unity in the Community and Powerhouse Community Development, this community celebration is designed to help students and families prepare for a successful school year.

From free haircuts and sports physicals to school supplies and community resources, there’s something for everyone.

Event Details

Date: Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: MU Pavilion
- 1701 W. Ash Street
- Columbia, MO
Admission: Free
Registration: No registration required. Forms will be completed at the event.

What to Expect

Families can take advantage of a variety of free services and resources, including:

Free haircuts
Free sports physicals
Dental, vision, and hearing screenings
Free food court
Household essentials
Free shoes (while supplies last)
Health and community resource fair

School Supply Donations Welcome

Community members are encouraged to donate new school supplies for students of all ages.

Elementary School Needs

Scissors
No. 2 pencils
24-count crayons
Colored pencils
White school glue
Glue sticks
Pink erasers
Colored pencils
Black dry-erase markers
Composition notebooks
Kleenex
Pocket folders
Washable markers
Rulers

Middle & High School Needs

Pens
Pocket folders
Spiral notebooks
Highlighters
Mechanical pencils
Blue or black ink pens
Colored pencils
Notebooks

Donations can be dropped off at:

Powerhouse Community Development
601 Business Loop 70 W., Suite 204
Columbia, MO 65203

Help Local Students Start Strong

The Community Back to School Bash brings together local organizations, volunteers, and community partners to help ensure every student has the tools they need for a successful school year. Whether you’re attending for the free services, donating supplies, or volunteering your time, this event is a great way to support Columbia families and strengthen the community together.

Check out all the Back to School Events in Columbia, MO.