Mankato Salvation Army to Host Back-to-School Community Fair Thursday, August 14, 2025
The Salvation Army in Mankato will once again host its Back-to-School Community Fair on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 700 S. Riverfront Drive, beginning in the Youth Center. This free event is open to low-income K–12 students enrolled in Blue Earth County and North Mankato schools.
“Many of us are excited to see our children return to school,” said Captain Andy, one of The Salvation Army’s officers/pastors in Mankato. “But for families struggling to make ends meet, this season can bring extra stress. We’re glad to host this event again to help ease that burden.”
The fair will feature: Free lunch, backpacks, shoes from the Shoe Truck, Family Thrift Store vouchers
“Challenging financial situations make it harder to provide for children,” said Leslie Johnson, Business Administrator for The Salvation Army in Mankato. “We want families to know they—and their children—matter to us.”
Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Location: The Salvation Army, 700 S. Riverfront Drive, Mankato (Youth Center) Who: K–12 students in Blue Earth County and North Mankato schools (no preschool or college-age students)
What to Bring (Checklist):
• State I.D.
• Proof of government assistance (EBT, WIC, SSI, SSDI)
• Proof of guardianship
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
