Pictured are three children wearing their new backpacks and looking at a CASAC activity about daily options and making good choices. Submitted photo

PANAMA — Children in the Panama Central School were treated to an evening of fun and snacks provided by the combined efforts of the Panama Baptist Church and the Panama United Methodist Church.

The event was the annual Back To School Bash for children in universal pre-kindergarten through sixth grades. The purpose of the event was to supply children with the necessary school supplies and a backpack to start the new school year.

A grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation along with donations from area churches, businesses and individuals allowed the organizers of the event to purchase quality backpacks, teacher-requested school supplies and items students and staff need at school.

There were also opportunities for children and families to learn about area organizations that support children and families. One of the activities that evening was a demonstration by the Sheriff’s K-9 unit. Bentley, the K-9 officer, was a favorite. Two officers interacted with children and answered questions from children and adults.

More than 50 families attended, 120 children played the games and received school supplies, and 115 backpacks were given out.