Families lined up down several blocks along 42nd Avenue South on Thursday, Aug. 26 as the Angle Lake Family Resource Center and a coalition of community organizations gave away 1,300 free supply-filled backpacks to SeaTac students.

The giveaway was part of SeaTac's 4th annual Back to School Resource Fair, located on the grounds of the center and Angle Lake Neighborhood Church, located on the corner of 42nd Avenue South and South 188th St.

Besides backpacks, students could receive immunizations, haircuts, dental checks and personal care packages.

Parents could learn about a variety of resources and supports to meet students and family needs, such as after-school programs, affordable childcare and parent support and assistance programs.

There were plenty of free products and services as well as fun activities, refreshments, door prizes and games. Interpreters were also on hand.

SeaTac firefighters brought an engine. King County Metro Sound Transit displayed a RapidRide bus.

According to a resource center press release, the supplies helped relieve some of the stress and financial burden related to the start of the school year. Highline public schools reopen on Sept. 8.

"The event expresses the power of community to work together and create an environment of neighborly care and action for children and families,' according to the press release.

Last year, 600 backpacks were given away at the fair. Another 200 backpacks were distributed to students on a waiting list, Colleen Brandt-Schluter, SeaTac's human services manager said.

The fair ran from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Brandt-Schluter said many SeaTac parents work two or three jobs, including in the evening so an evening event would not necessarily have been more convenient for families.

Sponsors included Community Health Plan, Swedish Medical Center, City of SeaTac, SeaTac Rotary Club, King County Library System, Lutheran Community Services NW, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Angle Lake Neighborhood Church, Bartell Drugs. Windermere Foundation and World Vision.

Other sponsors were Healthpoint CHC, Molina Healthcare, Alaska Airlines, Foundation for Early Learning, SOAR, Dr. Gary Conger, Hairmasters, Sound Transit, Highline Athletic Club, Matt Griffith YMCA, SeaTac firefighters, Cox Financial, Exchange Club of Highline, Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence, Target, SeaTacPark.com, Highline School District and local community members.

The Angle Lake Family Resource Center, located at 4040 S. 188th St., is a program of Lutheran Community Services NW.
According to center staffers, "Our mission is to work in partnership with individuals, families and communities for health, justice and hope.

"The AL Family Resource Center provides information, education and support activities that enhance family stability. Community connections and parent competence and confidence."

The center is part of the Village at Angle Lake community services building. The building is designed to be a one-stop location where south King County residents can access family resources, healthcare, childcare, senior housing, homecare services and immigrant and refugee services.