Northwest Local Schools hosts community Health and Safety Fair

COLERAIN TOWNSHIP, Ohio —

The annual Health and Safety Fair returns to the Northwest Local School District to help students and families start the new school year with the tools to succeed.

The free and family-friendly event is open to the entire community. Northwest Local Schools have partnered with community organizations to offer free haircuts, financial literacy for parents, and immunizations, said Darrell Yater, Superintendent of Northwest Local Schools.

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. Wednesday at Taylor Elementary School on Springdale Road, and will run until noon. The annual fair has been held ahead of the back-to-school season every year over the last decade.

Students will also receive the tools they need to succeed as a new year of learning starts like backpacks, school supplies and books.

"One of the things that we're really committed to in Northwest is not only knowing every student by name, story, strength and need, but actually supporting the whole family," Yater said. "And so, it's a great event. So, we're not only preparing internally to make sure that we're ready and safe, but we're also preparing to make sure that our students have what they need so when they show up on the first day, they are ready to go as well."

Cincinnati Children's Hospital will be on site to offer vaccines to prepare K-12 students for the new school year. Vaccines are free for those without insurance coverage. Families can call 513-636-7722 and press 1 to schedule their appointments. Appointments will be available from 8:15 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Taylor Elementary on Wednesday.

"We strongly encourage families to ensure their children meet the immunization requirements set by the Ohio Department of Health so they can start the school year safe, healthy, and ready to learn," according to Northwest Local Schools.

Families will also be connected with community resources, local vendors and have the chance to meet first responders with the Colerain Township Police and Fire Department.

There will also be student groups on site offering entertainment, along with games and raffles to help ring in the new school year with fun for the whole community.