WeCareCannon ready for school year

As this school year comes to an end, many in our community are already looking ahead to the next school year. Many things remain uncertain about the 2013-2014 school year, but Cannon County children can be assured of one thing…they can be ready and prepared for an exciting new school year thanks to the county wide initiative, WeCareCannon!

Some may be asking, "What exactly is WeCareCannon?" This first annual back to school event took place last July at Woodbury Grammar School and was open to all Cannon County students who were in need of having some help getting ready for the school year. Each of the approximately 500 children that were present was greeted by their school representative and given a new backpack.

As the children made their way through the school hallways they were met with smiling faces of community members who served as volunteers from all walks of life across Cannon County. Students were given the opportunity to get a fresh haircut, were given hygiene items such as soap and shampoo, and were fitted for a new pair of shoes.

Each Cannon County student in attendance also had the chance to have medical and dental check ups, be given a vision screening, and be supplied with new underwear and socks. They then were escorted to the gym, where a school supply warehouse had been assembled. Each student was escorted through the gym and was able to fill their backpack with the supplies they needed for their specified grade. As students exited, they were given a healthy snack with additional information and tools to promote healthy eating and exercise. Each and every service and item available to the children was absolutely free!

Churches, individuals, businesses, and organizations united together to make all of this possible. Whether it was a donation of certain supplies, giving of time in volunteering, or financially contributing, the children of Cannon County were appreciative of their community responding to the notion of "it takes a village".

This July 28 will bring the second annual WeCareCannon to the students of Cannon County. The event will again take place at Woodbury Grammar School from 2pm until 5pm, and will be open to ALL Cannon County school children, pre-k through high school. Many have already been hard at work securing funds and making preparations for this year's event. Once again, students can take advantage of free services, such as haircuts, dental checks, vision screenings, and medical check ups. Each student, who must be present with an adult, can also become prepared with the necessary school supplies, a new back pack, a pair of shoes, and new underwear and socks.

On June 1 beginning at 6pm, a Hawaiian Luau has been planned as a benefit for the back to school initiative. The Luau will include a delicious Hawaiian feast and authentic Hawaiian music and entertainment. A live auction will also take place during the evening. Tickets are available at your local Farm Bureau and at Woodbury Funeral Home for the price of $50 each. Proceeds from ticket sales and the auction will benefit the second annual WeCareCannon.

If you have questions about WeCareCannon or the Luau benefit, want to donate, help or volunteer, please send an email to WeCareCannon@gmail.com