Maple Grove’s Shoppes at Arbor Lakes Caps Off ‘Camp Arbor’ with Back-to-School Kits

Maple Grove’s Shoppes at Arbor Lakes Caps Off ‘Camp Arbor’ with Back-to-School Kits

The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes moved its free summer activities to to-go kits. They were such a hit that the Maple Grove shopping center decided to cap off the summer with back-to-school kits that included school supplies, a snack and more.

More than 500 kits were reserved within 24 hours. Organizers hope to expand the to-go kit program into the fall and holiday season.

“This week is our back-to-school week,” said Jennifer Zafft, marketing director with The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. “The kiddos are going to get some school supplies, a snack and some activities just to keep them busy and still engaged with everyone in the community.”

The turnout for the to-go kit giveaway was good. Whether it’s classroom, online or hybrid learning, school supplies are always in demand.

Back-to-school kits distributed at The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes

Organizers tried to keep things simple so anyone could get supplies. People registered and could drive up and get their kit.

The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes Planning Halloween Event

This is just one of a few giveaways being planned by The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. The next one is going to have a Halloween theme.

“Who knows what trick or treating is going to look like this year,” said Zafft. “We are already planning to put together some bags with some treats as well as some activities for kids. We are just telling people to look for that coming up in October.”

Zafft and her team enjoy the giveaways, but they are hoping Camp Arbor returns in 2021.

“We would like to see everybody’s smiling faces in person,” said Zafft.

Camp Arbor usually runs from July to September. It is a free weekly camp for children 3 through 10 at The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. 

Maple Grove