The Salvation Army to Host Annual Back-to-School Community Fair on August 12

The Salvation Army of Mankato invites eligible families to attend its annual Back-to-School Community Fair on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event will be held inside the Worship Center (Door G) at The Salvation Army, located at 700 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato.

This in-person registration event is open to families with students in Kindergarten through 12th grade who attend Blue Earth County or North Mankato schools. Children are not required to be present to register.

Families attending should be prepared to provide:
• A government-issued photo ID
• Proof of government assistance, such as an EBT or Medical Assistance (MA) card
• The birthdates of all children being registered

During the event, eligible families will receive:
• One new backpack for each eligible student (while supplies last)
• Access to the Good in the Hood Shoe Truck, providing gently used sneakers for children
• A Family Store clothing voucher for each registered family

Please note that school supplies will not be distributed at this event. The focus of this year’s fair is to help families prepare for the school year by providing backpacks, footwear, and clothing assistance.

The Salvation Army is also grateful for the support of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church of Vernon Center Youth Group, who will be serving free hot dogs for lunch throughout the event.

In addition, several community organizations will be on-site to share information about programs, services, and resources available to local families, making the fair an opportunity to connect with agencies that provide year-round support.
“Our Back-to-School Community Fair is about more than backpacks,” said Leslie D. Johnson, Business Administrator for The Salvation Army. “It’s an opportunity for families to connect with valuable community resources while helping children begin the school year with confidence.”

For additional information, please contact Leslie D. Johnson at (507) 344-9261 or leslie.johnson@usc.salvationarmy.org.
About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army Northern Division has served communities throughout Minnesota and North Dakota since 1886. Today, its local service centers provide emergency assistance, food, shelter, youth programs, and other critical services to individuals and families in need. The Salvation Army of Mankato remains committed to meeting human needs without discrimination and strengthening the Greater Mankato community through compassionate service.