A Bath-based nonprofit is working to ease back-to-school tensions and make the return to the classroom smoother.

On Sunday, Aug. 24, the Midcoast Youth Center will hold a Set for Success event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Morse High School. For the eighth year running, the Midcoast Youth Center and Skatepark is helping students head into the new school year with the tools and connections they need.

The event is free and open to all Regional School Unit 1, Georgetown and Bath Tech students as a kickoff to the school year. Students will also have a chance to meet their school’s principals, teachers and administrators before the first day of classes.

Every student who attends Set for Success will leave with a new backpack and a complete set of school supplies tailored to teachers’ lists.

The Backpack Challenge fundraiser will make a return this year through the support of local sponsors, with around 650 students and an adult from their family attending last year’s event.

Also available will be free haircuts with a licensed cosmetologist and a clothing closet stocked with a variety of new and gently used back-to-school apparel.

Before Set for Success begins, the Midcoast Youth Center welcomes community members to help with setup and breakdown, transport supplies, and guide students as Table Champions. Local organizations are encouraged to reserve a free table.

Volunteers can sign up online at midcoastyouth.org/set-for-success/.