BAPD Hosts 15th Annual Back-To-School Bash

Broken Arrow Police are helping families ahead of the new school year. Officers held a Back-to-School Bash today at The Assembly church.

The event isn't just a day of getting free stuff. It's about setting students up for success and freeing them from the fear of not fitting in because of hand-me-downs and outdated school supplies.

Heading back to school doesn't have to be a bummer. Students Brenda White and her brother Harrison can hardly contain their excitement about returning to class.

"After a year of not having school, we should be excited," said Brenda.

The siblings said they have a lot to look forward to.

"Getting backpacks and lunch boxes," said Harrison.

"Getting friends and seeing the teachers and getting to learn more," said Brenda.

The Whites are just two students who benefitted from the Broken Arrow Police Department's 15th Annual Back to School Bash.

"We love to serve our community and be a part of it," said Officer Chris Walker.

Officer Chris Walker thinks they helped more than 1,000 kids this year by giving them things like backpacks, school supplies, and haircuts.

"We want these kids to fit in with every other kid at school and to feel normal. If they don't have something we want to provide that to them, so they're not slighted when they're in class," said Officer Walker.

Volunteers Summer Carroll and Tatum Rupe said the experience is humbling.

"It just feels awesome like going home that night and being like wow I just helped like so many people like be able to go to school," said Summer Carroll.

"It's just amazing to see their smiling faces. The enthusiasm these kids have," said Tatum Rupe.

More than 30 vendors and community partners volunteered at today's event.