STHS Children’s to Host Back-to-School Block Party, August 1st

Mega Doctor News

As the new school year approaches, families across the Rio Grande Valley are preparing students for success in the classroom. 

While children look forward to reconnecting with friends and teachers, parents often face the challenge of purchasing school supplies, clothing and other essentials.

Families with school-age children are expected to spend an average of $863.86 on back-to-school needs, according to the National Retail Federation. 

In the Rio Grande Valley, where many families face financial challenges, those costs can place a significant strain on household budgets. 

“Between school supplies, clothing, shoes and other essentials, the costs can add up quickly,” says Lance Ames, Chief Executive Officer, South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s. “But students need these basics to start the school year prepared and ready to learn.”

To help Rio Grande Valley families offset back-to-school costs and equip students for success in the classroom, South Texas Health System Children’s will host its fifth annual Back-to-School Block Party on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Held in the STHS Children’s main parking lot, the event will unite STHS facilities, systemwide departments and community partners to provide local students with free school supplies, including notebooks, pencils, pens, crayons, colored pencils, glue and scissors.

“Our annual Back-to-School Block Party is about more than providing school supplies; it’s about investing in student success,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “By bringing together healthcare providers, community organizations and local businesses, we’re helping ease the financial burden many families face while ensuring local students have the tools and resources they need to begin the school year confident, prepared and ready to learn.”

In addition to free school supplies, the STHS Children’s Back-to-School Block Party will feature live entertainment, games for all ages, complimentary health screenings, a community resource expo and other family-friendly activities.

Children are encouraged to show their school spirit by wearing their campus colors or spirit shirts.

To make the event even more memorable, the first 100 students in line for school supplies will receive a free treat from STHS Children’s.

To learn more about the STHS Children’s Back-to-School Block Party, visit the STHS Children’s Facebook Events page or call the STHS Marketing Department at (956) 388-2020.