From block party to backpacks: Huss Project kicks off school year in Three Rivers

Part block party, part lifeline, the Huss Project’s annual Back to School Celebration brought hundreds of families together Saturday for music, food, and free backpacks filled with school supplies. For some, it was a joyful tradition; for others, it was a vital boost at the start of the school year.

Event organizer and *culture is not optional Executive Director Rob Vander Giessen-Reitsma said the energy was high and participation strong.

“All of the vendors, artists, and organization tables said they had a wonderful day,” he said. “We were able to hand out almost all of our backpacks, too.”

Vander Giessen-Reitsma estimates that nearly 2,000 people came through during the course of the day.

The event provides backpacks filled with school supplies for elementary, middle, and high school students at no cost to families. Nearly 47% of students at Three Rivers High School qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, underscoring the economic challenges many families face.

For Education Coordinator Beca Welty, the day stood out for its sense of connection.

“This event is special for our community in so many ways, and I loved seeing our neighbors connect, laugh, share food, and celebrate the beginning of another school year,” she said.

The celebration featured the annual Community Carnival, where local organizations set up booths with games, giveaways, and information about their services.

“The carnival is a great way for organizations to get the word out about their services in a fun and friendly atmosphere,” said Huss Project volunteer Deborah Haak-Frost. “A lot of connections were made to build up our community, with everything from train rides and zucchini racing to the farmer’s market and art activities.”

For Margaret Wenger, a farmer’s market manager at the Huss Project, the day was about creating an experience that blends joy with purpose.

“In our small-town context, it feels particularly important to create events that are fun and beautiful while also addressing some of the needs of our neighbors,” she said. “It’s exciting to be a part of a space where kids can experience local food, live music, locally created art, and nature-based play spaces.”

From school readiness to shared meals, the celebration offered a reminder of what can happen when a community comes together — not just to have fun, but to make sure every student starts the year with the tools they need to succeed.

Maxwell Knauer is a staff writer for Watershed Voice.