Welcome to your local community update! Today is July 13, 2026, and we’ve got plenty of exciting happenings in the Glades area that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a parent looking for activities for your kids or a young adult interested in building valuable skills, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the details!
First up, if you have kids aged 18 and under, listen up! From July 13 to 17, 2026, Glades Area Libraries will be offering Free Summer Lunches for Kids from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. It’s a great way to keep the little ones fed and happy during those long summer days. Speaking of keeping busy, young adults aged 18-25 can apply for the Disaster Resilient Florida for Young Adults program. But don’t wait too long—the application deadline is July 14, 2026. This program is a fantastic opportunity to learn about disaster risk using local data, which is super relevant for our area. You can get all the details on this program through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Workshops and Community Events
Now, let’s get to the workshops! On July 14, 2026, a SCORE Workshop will be held virtually at 6 PM. The topic? “Legal & Tax Implications of Starting a Business in Florida.” If you’ve ever thought about launching your own venture, this could be a goldmine of information! Then, on July 15, 2026, from 9 AM, there’s a Nurturing Parenting Workshop at The Glades Initiative, followed by a Money Moves Workshop at 12 PM (also virtual). There’s no shortage of learning opportunities!
On the same day, the Glades Initiative Food Pantry will be open for anyone in need, with Grab & Go meals available from 9-11:30 AM and 1-5 PM, plus CHOICE from 3-6 PM. It’s heartening to see such community support. And don’t forget about the PBC Meet & Greet on July 17, 2026, at Belle Glade Library from 11 AM to 12:30 PM. It’s a great chance to connect with others and learn more about local governance.
Exciting Back-to-School Events
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for July 18, 2026! There’s a Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway at 10 AM in Pahokee, followed by a Graduation Trunk Party for registered high school seniors at noon. Talk about a packed day! As we gear up for the school season, remember that the Voter Registration Deadline for the 2026 Primary Election is July 20, 2026. It’s super important to make your voice heard!
And if you’re into the arts, auditions for The Little Mermaid will take place on July 20, 2026, at 9:30 AM at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just looking to try something new, this could be your moment! Plus, July 21, 2026, will feature a Food Distribution event from 10 AM to 12 PM at MLK Park in Pahokee, followed by an Overdose Prevention Webinar at noon (virtual).
Workshops, Food and Health Initiatives
As we roll into late July, a Financial Literacy Workshop titled “Considering Homeownership” kicks off on July 22, 2026, at 9:30 AM at The Glades Initiative. Then, from July 22-25 and July 28-31, there’s a special Teacher Appreciation Event offering free personal shopping for women educators. Finally, on July 25, 2026, head over to the Belle Glade Civic Center for the Back to School Bash from 10 AM to 3 PM. It’s all about celebrating our students and getting them ready for another year of learning!
Oh, and just a heads-up! Those who need school physicals can take advantage of free services on August 6, 2026, at First Haitian Baptist Church. There’s also a Trauma Informed Care Training on August 12, 2026, at 9:30 AM (virtual), so keep an eye out for that. If you’re interested in swimming, registration for Free Swimming Lessons opens on August 15, 2026, at Pioneer Park Pool. It’s a great way to beat the heat and learn a vital skill at the same time!
For ongoing community support, remember that Food Distribution Sites are available at The Glades Initiative on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Plus, Summer BreakSpot continues to offer no-cost meals for kids until the end of summer. If you know any families that could use extra help, let them know about the Free Family Weekend Meal Kits available every Friday for eligible children.
Let’s not forget the exciting Glades Area Candidates Forum on August 5, 2026, from 6 PM to 8:30 PM at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with local candidates and learn more about their platforms. With so much happening, it’s a vibrant time to be part of our community!
For more information about these events and programs, check out the full details in our source here. Let’s make the most of this summer together!