LAWRENCE – The Van Buren Intermediate School District held its annual Van Buren County Backpack Giveaway Thursday, Aug. 10, at the Van Buren Tech, 250 South St., here, as part of their Back-to-School Bonanza 2023. Backpacks were handed out free to children aged pre-school through 12 grade attending school districts within the Van Buren ISD boundaries. Last year, the ISD gave away between 900 and 1,000 backpacks. Many organizations took part in the event, supplying information and handouts to those who took part. Cheryl-Marie Manson, VBISD director of instructional services, greeted those as they arrived. With an inflatable tooth brush in hand, she is shown next to a “tooth” costumed character.
Courier-Leader photos/Paul Garrod