UPTOWN — With the start of the CPS school year just over a week away, there's no shortage of ways to help the neighborhood schools and students.
Here's a quick list of events and programs happening around the neighborhood to help in the back-to-school madness:
Donate to the Sponsor-A-Student Backpack Drive: Last week, Ald. Harry Osterman (48th) extended his backpack drive for low-income students in the area. Donors can sign up here to sponsor a student, who will then receive a bag full of supplies. Individual donations will also be accepted. Donations can be dropped off at the offices of State Sen. Heather Steans, State Rep. Kelly Cassidy and Osterman's office at 5533 N. Broadway.
Friday
Back to School Picnic: Courtenay Language Arts Center, 4420 N. Beacon St., will host its back-to-school picnic from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, where you can meet with the staff and friends of the school while enjoying music and food.
TKO at Billy Bronco Park: The Talented Kids Organization, which showcases the talents of children from ages 2 to 16, will perform original music in the park. The back-to-school performance begins at 3 p.m. Friday at 4437 N. Magnolia Ave. The event is hosted by Sheridan Park Neighbors, Sheridan Park PAC and GWNA, Dover Street and Beacon Block Clubs.
Sunday
Eggs for Kids: This sixth annual event to benefit Helen C. Pierce School of International Studies includes an array of brunch favorites and over a dozen beer pairings and cocktails. Coffee and espresso will be served by Metropolis Coffee. A silent auction will take place featuring gift cards from local restaurants. The event hopes to raise $25,000 for arts, music and after-school programs. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. Each ticket includes one drink; additional drinks are $5. Hopleaf Bar, 5148 N. Clark St.
Wednesday
Back-to-School Picnic at Senn High School: Head down to the front lawn of Senn High School, 5900 N. Glenwood Ave., for music, face painting, games and free school supplies for the first 250 participants. Bring a blanket and picnic basket or grab a slice of Giordano's Pizza from a food truck. They'll be offering 200 free slices of pizza with additional slices available for purchase. After the picnic, stay for star-gazing with the Adler Planetarium. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
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