Though many students throughout Lewis County have just started enjoying their summer vacation, the Lewis County Youth Mentorship Program is already organizing and preparing for its Back to School Supply Giveaway and Resource Fair.
The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, at the Northwest Sports Hub in Centralia.
Free backpacks, school supplies, clothing and shoes for students will be available while supplies last. The Northwest Sports Hub is located at 701 Allen Ave. in Centralia.
Youth Mentorship Program Coordinator Lisa Leon said more than 40 community partners have already signed up to participate in this year’s resource fair, which will include free flu and COVID-19 vaccines for children between six months and 18 years old, sports physicals and haircuts for students.
Those seeking vaccines are asked to bring proof of insurance along with vaccine cards if available.
The Washington state Department of Health’s Care-A-Van mobile clinic will be on site as well providing the vaccines along with naloxone.
Additionally, “(The Washington state Department of Social and Health Services) will have their mobile office there to help families sign up for needed benefits,” Leon said in a news release.
While open to all with children and walk-ins are welcome on the day of the event, registration for this event is encouraged and is currently open online at https://bit.ly/4bWuITx.
While some school supplies have already been donated, the Lewis County Youth Mentorship Program is still accepting donations. Those wishing to donate school supplies can drop them off or send them to Leon’s office, located at 1255 SW Pacific Ave., Chehalis.
Monetary donations are also welcome and can be sent to the Lewis County Youth Association at P.O. Box 1293, Napavine, with the donation earmarked for the Youth Mentorship Program Back to School Supply Give Away and Resource Fair.
For more information on both this event and the Lewis County Youth Mentorship Program, email Leon at Lisa.Leon@lewiscountywa.gov.
