Nearly 400 people came to the Back 2 School Health and Resource Fair held Saturday, Aug. 1, topping last year’s attendance.
“We were thrilled with this year’s turnout and are already planning for continued growth next year!” said Jay Boulanger, community health consultant for Taylorville Memorial Hospital, who co-sponsored the event. “It was a fun day for local families who could start preparations for the upcoming school year.”
Organizers distributed 250 backpacks and school supplies to local students plus 50 free haircuts and 30 vision and hearing screenings. Additional activities included music, games, a produce giveaway, plus prize giveaways.
“It was wonderful to see families come together,” said Bruce Blanshan, executive director of the Christian County YMCA. “So many students will start the school year with supplies, support and encouragement. We wish all students a safe, successful school year!”
The event was held at the Christian County YMCA and featured a free community cookout courtesy of Dinner Seasoned with Love. Twenty-seven community organizations and vendors were on site providing free resources and health information.
“We are grateful to the YMCA and the hospital for the opportunity to participate,” said Suzy Traughber with Operation Loaded Book Bag and Dinner Seasoned with Love. “In the 14 years Operation Loaded Book Bag has been active, we reached more students in one day than we have in all the previous years!”
Plans are already underway for next year’s Back 2 School event. For information on how to get involved, call Boulanger at 447-787-5258.