Empowering Futures – One Backpack at a Time

Connected Community Schools is proud to announce the 2025 Back-to-School Bash, presented by National Grid. This year’s event will take place at the Connected Impact Center, 207 North James Street, Rome, NY 13440, and will benefit students and families across 13 school districts, representing 52 schools and serving over 25,000 students. The Connected Back-to-School Bash is a one-stop event designed to help students begin the school year confident, prepared, and supported.

We are expecting between 3,000–3,500 participants, and we plan to distribute 2,000–3,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. Students must be pre-registered to receive school supplies, bring their school supply list, and be enrolled in a Connected district.

Thanks to the generous support of National Grid, students will receive items tailored to their classroom needs—such as backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, and more. This event is part of National Grid’s statewide initiative, Empowering Futures: One Backpack at a Time, which supports back-to-school efforts across New York State to ensure students have the tools they need to thrive from day one.

In addition to school supplies, the Back-to-School Bash will feature fun activities and food for families to enjoy, creating a festive, welcoming atmosphere for all. Families will also have the opportunity to connect with over 40 local organizations that provide resources and services in areas such as healthcare, mental health, nutrition, housing, and afterschool programs.

The Back-to-School Bash is more than just a giveaway—it’s a celebration of community and connection.

“This event reflects our commitment to meeting students’ needs beyond the classroom,” said Connected Community Schools leadership. “We’re grateful to National Grid for their support to make sure every child has the tools and support they need to thrive.”

Register now for the Vaccine Clinc! For details about your local event, visit the Connected Community Schools Facebook page.

Connected Community Schools Contact:

Melissa Roys, Executive Director
Melissar@connectedcs.org
(315) 269-3444

Danielle Martin, Executive Director
daniellem@connectedcs.org
(315) 525-1896