With back-to-school on the horizon, Hasting Family Service (HFS) is teaming up to ensure local students and families are equipped for learning. Beginning Aug. 3, 2026, parents/guardians living in or with students attending school in ISD 200 can call HFS at 651-437-7134 to register for School Supplies assistance, with distribution appointments the week of Aug. 17. School supply distribution week is a highlight for HFS staff and volunteers, with the option for students to attend with their adult. Not only do students receive new supplies, they are also able to make selections for some items, choose from “extras”, receive a frozen custard token thanks to Culver’s in Hastings, and a coupon to shop Rivertown Treasures for one free clothing item.
Last year, HFS assisted 306 students and 73 teachers through this program and this year it anticipates a similar turnout, however serving a higher bubble of middle to high-school students. While elementary students often need more classroom supplies, supporting older students with durable backpacks and advanced calculators greatly assists family budgets to help offset costs for sports and activities, driver’s education, and access to technology.
HFS offers this program in partnership with a generous community. Donations of new school supplies are being accepted at the HFS Donation Center through Aug. 11, with a most-needed items list and a convenient Amazon wish list available on its website. Another opportunity to provide support is that for every dollar donated through July 31, 2026, a proportionate match is available through the Open Your Heart Summer Challenge. With a gift of $100, HFS can provide five backpacks filled with supplies. Gifts must be received or postmarked by July 31, 2026, to be eligible for the proportionate match.
HFS is also partnering with Dakota County Public Health to host a free and low-cost vaccination clinic for eligible children on Aug. 17. Parents/guardians can drop by HFS with their children from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. that day for vaccinations. Low-cost vaccines are available for children who do not have health insurance or have health insurance that does not cover vaccines. Free vaccines are available for children who are American Indian or Alaskan Native, or are on Medical Assistance, MNCare, or PMAP. Children must come with a parent/legal guardian and bring their insurance card if they have one. The cost of each vaccine is $21. Cash, check, and credit card will be accepted. No one will be turned away if unable to pay.
To get young students off to a great developmental start, HFS can also help get your preschooler registered at Tilden Community Preschool with no registration fees. Call HFS to make a community resources appointment.
