"What's Happening Wednesday!"

Posted Date: 09/23/26 (05:00 PM)

Elementary ONLY School Workday — Friday, Sept. 25
Reminder: Friday, Sept. 25, is an elementary-only teacher workday. There will be no school for elementary students. Middle and high schools will operate on their regular schedules.
QUEST will be open at its full-day sites for enrolled students.

Christmas Assistance: Applications Open September 28

Catawba County families needing assistance this holiday season may apply for the 2026 Christmas Bureau from September 28 through October 12 at www.SAangeltree.org.
The program provides toys, clothing, and coats for children ages 12 and younger. Teens ages 13–17 who are still in school will receive gift cards for clothing. Families must reside in Catawba County.

Applications are online only.

Before applying, please gather:

Unexpired photo ID or passport for each applying adult.
Birth certificate or immunization record for every child in the household, plus custody papers if applicable.
Current food stamp award letter—not the card—or proof of all monthly income and expenses.
Proof of Catawba County residency for everyone in the household, including children. Children’s documentation may include immunization or school records.
Clothing and shoe sizes, and toy wishes for children ages 12 and younger. Toy requests should not exceed $50; gaming consoles and computers are not eligible.

You may photograph documents with your phone to upload them. All required documents must be uploaded for approval. Be sure to validate your cell number to receive application updates by text.

Need help uploading documents? Limited in-person appointments are available October 1, 6 and 8. Call United Way at 828-327-6851, Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., to request an appointment.

After submitting, allow up to one full week for approval confirmation. Please do not submit a second application, as duplicates delay processing.

Free Community Performance: Imagine a Dragon
Hickory Ballet & Performing Arts invites families to enjoy a free performance of Imagine a Dragon on Saturday, September 26, at the CommScope Stage in Union Square. Performances will be held at 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Bring the family and enjoy this magical community arts experience!

Sherrills Ford Optimist Club sports registration is open!
Winter basketball spots are limited, and registration closes when full. Basketball registration includes a preseason clinic with HoopKlip on November 1; details will be emailed to registered families.
The club also offers baseball, softball, T-ball and volleyball in the spring, and soccer, football, volleyball and cheer in the fall. Learn more and register at sfoptimist.org.

Explore a Career in EMS: Applications Due October 9
Does your high school student have an interest in emergency medicine or health care? The Catawba County EMS Explorer Program offers hands-on training and classroom experiences to help students build skills, confidence, and career knowledge.
Participants must:

Be 14–18 years old
Maintain a B average or better
Complete 15 service hours

Apply by October 9, 2026:
https://catawbacountync.gov/news/ccems-paramedic-explorer-applications/
Questions? Contact 828-464-1575 or melaniesigmon@catawbacountync.gov