Where We Have Been

Founded in 1999, the Platte County Health Department and other community partners started the first annual Platte County Back to School Fair. Ninety-four children from all four public school systems were supplied with backpacks and hygiene products.

As time went on, the numbers of low-income children steadily grew. Exhibitors equipped with resources to address physical, mental, and social needs were introduced. 

In 2016, we became the Platte County Back to School Fair Association, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization​.

Who We Are

Equal Start is a team of community stakeholders consisting of schools, public health professionals, social workers, and volunteers striving to provide
low-income families school resources, access to care, and prevention education.

​The Platte County Back to School Fair is a program of Equal Start and is funded through the generous donations of individuals, corporate and private foundations, fundraising events and grants.

Where We Are Now

In 2022, the Platte County Back to School Fair became a program of Equal Start. The program you have supported and loved now has a new name and logo!

​Even though our name has changed, our mission is still the same. We want to provide Platte County
low-income families an equal and safe opportunity for school readiness by enriching physical, mental and social well-being.

As of 2021, 16,415 Platte County children have been provided access to care, backpacks full of school supplies, hygiene products, and community resources.