HAINES CITY, FL – The Haines City Police Department’s COPS Unit and Unity in the Community of Northeast Polk County are teaming up to make sure students have everything they need for the start of school – including a little fun.
The two are sponsoring the “Back 2 School Bash”, which will take place on Aug. 7. The event begins at Lake Eva Events Center, 799 Johns Ave. and concludes at Lake Eva Aquatics Center, 321 S. Sixth St.
A drive-through backpack and school supply giveaway will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lake Eva Event Center for all students from kindergarten through high school. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Lake Eva Aquatics Center will be open for the youngsters to enjoy with their families.
“This is a great opportunity for our officers to get out in the community, give back and to positively impact our youth,” Interim Police Chief Loyd Stewart said. “Community events are an outstanding way to make connections and we hope this helps set a strong tone for the new school year.”
A signed waiver by a parental guardian is requested to take part in the night session. Waivers can be picked up at the Haines City Police Department, 35400 U.S. 27, during normal business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. There will be free food at the Aquatics Center.
“We’re excited to work with Unity in the Community to help prepare our local youth for the upcoming school year,” said Sgt. Kedrick Frazier, who oversees the COPS Unit. “We’ll make sure they get everything they need for the start of school, but hopefully a night at the water park will remind them that their fun summers aren’t over just yet.”
COPS is the Haines City Police Department’s community policing unit, which serves as a bridge between the department and the community. The COPS Unit is often seen at community events, mentoring local youth and working with community members to solve problems unique to the city’s different neighborhoods.
Unity in the Community is a nonprofit comprised of local civic and faith leaders based in Haines City. The nonprofit seeks to meet the needs of the community’s youth and families.
“Having different pockets of our city come together, including our sponsor Miracle Toyota, to positively impact our youth is what Unity in the Community is all about,” said Rev. Charles Anderson, the nonprofit’s president. “We have a great working relationship with the Haines City Police Department and we appreciate their dedication to not only keep us safe, but to make a lasting impact.”
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