Community Bridges and Mesa Prevention Alliance Host Free Back-to-School Event for Local Families
Mesa, AZ — The Mesa Prevention Alliance – powered by Community Bridges, Inc. through donations by our partners, the Valley business community, and local volunteers – will host its 5th Annual Back-to-School Event on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The event will offer free backpacks filled with essential school supplies for students in grades K-12.
In addition to school supplies, participants will receive free dental and health screenings, haircuts, kids’ activities, community resources, and a surprise visit from beloved Arizona sports mascots. This family-friendly event is open to everyone and aims to help students head back to school feeling prepared and confident.
“It’s wonderful to see the community come together to provide free support, ensuring that the youth in our community feel confident and ready to tackle another school year,” said Natalia Chimbo-Andrade, Director of Community Education & Outreach at Community Bridges, Inc. “Without our generous partners and sponsors, we couldn’t hold such a much-needed event.”
A key feature of this year’s event is the distribution of free refurbished computers for families without access to a reliable computer at home, generously provided by nonprofit partner Compudopt. Pre-registration is required to receive a computer.
Early arrival is strongly encouraged, as supplies and giveaways will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
According to national retail forecasts, parents and guardians are expected to spend an average of $875 per household on back-to-school clothes, shoes, and supplies, or approximately $586 per child. Events like this help alleviate that burden for families facing financial pressure.
For questions, email: communityeducation@cbridges.com
To donate school supplies, contact: nchimbo-andrade@cbridges.com
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About Mesa Prevention Alliance: To Empower the community members of Mesa by promoting health and wellness, and addressing substance use through education, awareness, advocacy, and connection. To learn more, follow the MPA on Facebook and Instagram.
About Community Bridges, Inc.: Founded in 1982, Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is a statewide leader in integrated behavioral health services. With more than 40 locations across Arizona, CBI offers prevention, treatment, and recovery programs that support individuals and families facing substance use, mental health, and crisis challenges. Our mission is to maintain the dignity of human life by delivering compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers people to build healthier futures and stronger communities. Learn more at www.communitybridgesinc.org.