Over 300 kids, families, and community members came out to the Wilson Area High School parking lot for the 2nd Annual Touch a Truck and Community Resource Fair. Several vehicles, including fire trucks, police cars, school buses, and even a hearse were provided by local municipalities and businesses for an afternoon of fun and community. At the same time, the event served as a school resource giveaway, alleviating economic stress for Wilson Area families.
“Our Community Board identified four priority risk factors in the Pennsylvania Youth Survey with one being ‘low neighborhood attachment’. We created the Touch A Truck Event and Community Resource Fair as a way to offset that risk factor and build community,” said Trina Johnson-Brady, Community Mobilizer for the Wilson Area Communities That Care Coalition. “Our goal is to create a fun free event for families to enjoy while also preparing students for the school year and connecting parents and guardians to vital resources.”
52% of Wilson Area School District students receive free and reduced lunches. With the school year rapidly approaching and food and housing prices increasing, the Coalition recognized the need to host this event to reduce economic stress, assist students, and provide fun for families in the Wilson Area community.
And they’re not alone: Several organizations eagerly joined to have a presence and offer what they could for this community event. Nazareth Girl Scout Troop 8857 provided free face painting, Sculpt Studio for Hair did braiding, United Fellowship Lutheran Church provided free popcorn, Bethel Memorial Baptist Church gave out toys, Lifestyle Barber Academy provided free haircuts, and Project of Easton had children’s activities. With the support of sponsors Comegno Law Group, SureFix Remodeling, and Easton Kiwanis, attendees were offered free ice cream, a hot dog, and soft drink.
“The Kiwanis Club of Easton is honored to support the Wilson Area Communities That Care Coalition ‘Touch A Truck’ event as we all strive to “improve the world one child and one community at a time.” said Terry A. Thomas, Early Childhood Advocate and VP, Easton Kiwanis.
Beyond the resources and the trucks, the event presented some of the best of the community coming together for a common purpose.
“The Wilson Borough Lions Club is eager to be involved in the Touch-A-Truck event because it provides a unique opportunity to connect with our community and showcase the value of local service.” said Don Barrett, President of the Wilson Borough Lions Club and Mayor of Wilson Borough. “Volunteers are essential in fostering a sense of unity and engagement, making this event a cornerstone for building stronger, more connected neighborhoods.”
“The Wilson Area School District has partnered with the Wilson Area Communities that Care Coalition to review data in order to help identify and implement evidence-based programs and practices aimed at preventing problems such as substance use, violence, and academic failure.” said Laura Samson, Director of Student Services for the Wilson Area School District. “The Wilson Area CTC has encouraged many new partnerships between our schools, families, and local organizations. It has coordinated resources and services across the various sectors, ensuring that our efforts are aligned and effective, fostering a united approach to support our students’ wellbeing.”
“The event is important for people to have a sense of community and understand that there are local organizations genuinely interested in the well-being and future of our families and children.” said Trooper Ryan Seiple, Pennsylvania State Police
“The Wilson Area Partners in Education Foundation is thrilled to be part of the Touch A Truck event. Our mission is to enhance the learning culture for all WASD students through experiences that would not normally be available in the classroom.” said Scott Barr, President, Board of Directors, Wilson Area Partners in Education Foundation.
“The Key Home Sale Team of Keller Williams is proud to be participating in the backpack and school supply giveaway to support the educational needs of local children and ensure they have the necessary tools for a successful school year” said Lori DeAngelis, Director of Operations at Keller Williams Real Estate. “This initiative is vital as it helps bridge the gap for families in need, fostering a brighter future for our community.”
“Meuser Library is proud to be a partner in the Touch A Truck Event and Community Resource Fair sponsored by the Wilson Area Communities That Care Coalition” said Daniel Redingto, Director of Mary Meuser Memorial Library. “The Library is thrilled to provide Free Books for Young Readers.”
