Set for Success Sponsorship

This celebration of learning will provide every RSU 1 student, Pre-K through grade 12, with a new backpack and all teacher-required school supplies for a successful school year.

This event welcomes every student in RSU1, regardless of need. Last year, over 625 students attended with their parents and caregivers. We repeatedly heard that Set for Success is about “much more than free school supplies!” This event is designed to increase the connection between students & families, schools, and community support systems so that every child can thrive.

Here’s how it works:

When a student arrives, they are greeted by their school principal and district superintendent, who provide a school supply list specific to the child’s classroom. Next, they stop at the Midcoast Youth Center table and receive a Family Resource Guide containing local school information, enrichment opportunities for all ages, mental health information, community resources, and local business sponsorships (600 are printed and distributed, and we keep a digital version on our website). 

Students then select their favorite backpack from hundreds available and head off to their school’s supply table, staffed by their teachers and local volunteers. Once they pick out supplies, they can stop by Bath Tech’s Cosmetology classroom, where licensed cosmetologists provide free haircuts. Finally, they can visit over 30 “booths” from organizations like Midcoast Maine Community Action, Patten Free Library, and more along Information Highway. 

Impact:

This event IS about so much more than just providing free school supplies. At the heart of Set for Success, connections are being made, supportive relationships are being built, our community is getting stronger, and our youth can see and feel that they matter. When families face hard times, they will know exactly who to call because we have laid the foundation together.

Here’s how you can help:

Become an event sponsor and help build strong connections between the community and our youth. Together, we can demonstrate to each student just how much they matter!

With over 2000 students, this event is quite an undertaking. It will take all of us, coming together and helping where we can – in true Midcoast Maine spirit!