Building Confidence for Back-to-School: Families, Community Health Workers, and Police Come Together
Back-to-school season is a time of excitement, possibility, and new beginnings. But for many families in our community, it can also be a time of stress, as the costs of clothes, shoes, and supplies quickly add up. That’s why we are so proud of a special partnership that brought joy and relief to seven Adelante Mujeres families this summer.
On August 21, the Hillsboro Police Department, DICK’S Sporting Goods in Hillsboro, and Adelante Mujeres came together to host a “Shop with a Cop” event. Students were welcomed into the store by Alberto Gonzalez, the store manager, and left with backpacks, school supplies, and clothes, as well as smiles, confidence, and a fresh start for the school year.
After a warm welcome and introduction by Officer Alex Mejia Alberto, each child was paired with Hillsboro Police officers who helped them pick out shoes, clothing, and gear. For Sergio, a soon-to-be high school freshman, the experience helped ease his anxiety about starting high school. “I thought I was only going to get a backpack,” he shared. “Now I have comfortable clothes that will make me more confident at my new school. I hope this backpack lasts through college!”
Mateo, just starting kindergarten, couldn’t stop smiling about his new shoes. “I can’t wait to go to school and wear my new shoes! I liked shopping with the police,” he said proudly.
This event represented something deeper: connection, trust, and community care.
This opportunity was made possible by the incredible work of Adelante Mujeres’ Community Health Workers (CHWs) who are Spanish-speaking, state-certified leaders who use their lived experience to advocate for families. Every day, CHWs help community members access healthcare, navigate systems, and address the many social and economic factors that shape well-being. Back-to-school support is just one example of how they walk alongside families, making sure children and parents alike can thrive.
The event also helped families build positive relationships with the Hillsboro Police Department. Together, we reaffirmed an important truth: our community is safest when every person—regardless of immigration status or background—feels secure in calling for help when needed. Resolution No. 2552, adopted by the City of Hillsboro, makes clear that all community members are protected and encouraged to reach out for public safety support.
At Adelante Mujeres, we believe every child deserves to walk into the classroom with pride and possibility. Thanks to this collaboration, seven families started the school year with new supplies and with renewed confidence, stronger connections, and the knowledge that their community stands beside them.