Residents of Lawrence Village and Washington Court Apartments were given a great start to the school year, thanks to a partnership between Wallick Communities, Resident Resources Network, the Community Action Agency of Fayette County (CAAFC) and the Ironton and Lawrence County Community Action Organization (ILCCAO), and grant funding from the Ohio Capital Impact Corporation (OCIC) and Key Development Corporation. OCIC’s generous grant donation supported back to school rallies being held at both properties in an effort to promote school readiness among children and families of the community.

ILCCAO worked with local community organizations who brought a variety of resources onsite for supporting school readiness for youth and adult residents at Lawrence Village. A total of 73 individuals (21 families) participated and were supplied with bags filled with hygiene items that will ensure children and families are prepared for the upcoming school year. In addition, 45 children were provided with brand new shoes!

At Washington Court, CAAFC collaborated with 16 local service providers that were brought on site to offer resources for getting youth and parents prepared for and excited about the upcoming school year. They provided educational materials, demonstrations, and goodies for the approximately 150 residents in attendance. Lunch and snacks were also provided to all attendees. In addition, all youth received t-shirts, socks, earbuds (required by the school), and hoodies and sweat pants with their school’s mascot printed on them to encourage school pride. To top it off, the Washington Court Fire Department brought the firetruck and fire hats for children to enjoy, the Scooby Doo Mystery Van Machine stopped by for some photo opportunities, and Bug-a-Boo the Clown provided balloon animals, magic, and funny stories for all!