Connected Community Schools Hosts 2025 Back-to-School Bash Presented by National Grid

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.”
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

For more information on Connected Community Schools, visit
connectedcommunityschools.org and follow us on Facebook
@ConnectedCommunitySchools