School supplies, health services available at Saline County Back to School Fair

As the school year inches closer, a program to make sure students get school supplies is back, and this time it's added a new service.

The annual Saline County Back to School Fair is happening from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, at the Salina Central High School gym, 650 E. Crawford St.

Students who live in Saline County or go to school in Saline County, are going into grades K-8, qualify for free or reduced lunches, or receive SNAP or TANF benefits are invited to pick up backpacks filled with basic school supplies on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

In addition to school supplies, dental screenings and cavity prevention services will be available on a walk-in basis throughout the event. Community information and booths with games and activities will also be available from 3 to 6 p.m. and finally a new service will join the lineup, appointment scheduling for school and sports physicals.

While Salina Family Healthcare Center has been taking part in providing health services at the fair for years, Genell Heimer, community outreach supervisor, said this new feature is designed to make more opportunities and flexibility for families.

“We want to make it as convenient for students to get the necessary health check-ups before the school year begins," Heimer said.

For physicals happening between noon to 3 p.m. families can schedule appointments using the healthcare center's website, salinahealth.org/backtoschool/.

In addition to scheduling appointments, from 3 to 6 p.m. walk-in appointments for physicals will be available.

Maddie Donatell-Chandler, community engagement and marketing coordinator for Salina Family, said those who have questions or wish to make an appointment over the phone can call the center at 785-825-7251.

Whether families have insurance or not, Salina Family said there are no out-of-pocket costs associated with the health services.