The McDowell Foundation is proud to announce our 6th Annual Back to School Bash: Stellar Odyssey — a free community event designed to launch local students into a strong new school year.
Share our event with your family and friends. Help us reach every student in the community!
Mark your calendars for the biggest Back to School Bash yet — a stellar journey preparing students for liftoff.
A day full of fun, resources, and community connection — with a cosmic twist for 2026!
Every child receives a fully stocked backpack with all the school supplies they need to blast off into the new school year.
Pencils, notebooks, rulers, crayons, and more — everything students need to succeed from day one.
Space-themed games, music, activities, and entertainment for the whole family.
Connect with local organizations and resources that help families all year long.
Enjoy free food and refreshments while connecting with neighbors.
Capture the joy and excitement of children preparing for a great school year!
Hear from the families whose lives have been touched by the Back to School Bash.
The McDowell Foundation's Back to School Bash was a blessing for our family. My kids were so excited to pick out their own backpacks and supplies.
As a single mom of three, I can't always afford all the supplies. This event makes my kids feel prepared and confident walking into the first day of school.
I volunteered at the Bash last year and seeing the joy on those children's faces was life-changing. Incredible work in our community.
My daughter still talks about the fun she had at the Bash. It's more than just supplies — it's a celebration that makes kids feel valued.
See the impact from our previous Back to School Bash missions!
Saturday, August 1st, 2026 · 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM · Gulf View Square Mall
Register below to reserve yours — one per child, must be present to receive!
Sign up to reserve a backpack and supplies, then download your Astronaut ID Card with punch card. You must complete all 5 mission stations at the Bash and present your card to receive your backpack!
Your Astronaut ID Card is ready! Download it and bring it to the Bash on August 1st. Remember — complete all 5 stations to get your backpack!
Arrive at Gulf View Square Mall and check in with your printed or digital ID card
Visit all 5 mission stations — Fun Zone, Reading, Health, Create, Community
Get your card punched at each station as you complete the activities
All 5 punches? Head to the Backpack Launch Zone to claim your grade-level backpack & supplies!
These amazing businesses and organizations help make the Bash possible every year.
Center for Wellness — Supporting healthy students and families
Visit Website →Interested in sponsoring? Contact us →
See what's needed for the 2026 Stellar Odyssey. Click an item to pledge!
Every item helps a student launch into the new school year!
Want to donate supplies? Contact us or drop off at Hits 106 5347 Main Street Suite 203, New Port Richey, FL 34652.
Everything you need to know about the 2026 Stellar Odyssey.
100% free and open to all students and families. No registration required — just show up!
All ages — elementary through high school. Every student who attends receives supplies while they last.
9409 US Highway 19, Port Richey, FL 34668. Plenty of free parking available.
Just yourself and your family! Everything is provided free. We recommend arriving early for the best selection.
Contact us at 727-859-5508 or through our Contact page. Volunteers help with setup, distribution, and cleanup.
Absolutely! Drop off at Hits 106 5347 Main Street Suite 203, New Port Richey, FL 34652.
Visit our Vendors page or contact us directly. Sponsorship packages available at various levels.
Yes! Plenty of free parking. The event is inside the mall — air-conditioned comfort!
Share our event, donate supplies, volunteer your time, or become a vendor.
Contact us to learn more, volunteer, or donate supplies for the 2026 Stellar Odyssey!
