Judith Garcia, event organizer at the Mission Events Center in Mission, Texas, told attendees that the venue was hosting two co‑located events: a back‑to‑school program called Operation Back to School and the city’s National Night Out. "We're providing vaccinations, backpacks, a lot of school supplies as well for the kids during this time of need," Garcia said.
Garcia said the events brought together local agencies and service providers so residents could meet law enforcement and access services. "Every year, we have our national night out here at the city. This is a day that we set aside so that our law enforcement officers...can come and meet our community," she said.
Organizers identified Mission Police Department, Mission CISD and Driscoll Health Plan/Driscoll Health System among partners helping staff information and service booths, Garcia said, and thanked other organizations that provided health screenings and school supplies. "It's so beautiful when everyone comes together, on behalf of children," she said.
The event combined community outreach with practical supports for families preparing for the school year. Garcia closed by thanking participating organizations and neighbors for attending and supporting the initiatives.