Back-to-school fair a boon to some families
WANTAGE More than 300 children and their families turned out to receive haircuts, play games and get oodles of free school supplies at the seventh annual Back-to-School Fair hosted by Project Self-Sufficiency. Select social service agencies were also on hand to distribute literature and supplies at the fair, which took place on Thursday, Aug. 20 at the agency’s campus in Newton. The event was packed with useful information, from tips on nutrition to topics affecting self-esteem. The event also featured break-out sessions on a variety of topics such as Internet safety and text messaging. The Wal-Mart in Franklin served as a corporate sponsor of the event, and donations of school supplies were received from local businesses and civic organizations. To help students look their best on the first day of school, haircuts were donated by stylists from Becky’s Hair Therapy, George Michael, His and Hair, Salon Bleu, Salon Serendipity and Salon Unique. Representatives from local social service organizations distributed literature about their own services to parents, while Project Self-Sufficiency staff members were on hand to play games and assemble crafts with the children at the fair. Local volunteers handed out crayons, notebooks and glue sticks along with fliers dealing with issues at school. Dinner and snacks were also provided. “The Back-to-School season can be a very stressful time for some families, especially those who may not have the resources to buy all of the things that their children need,” said Deborah Berry-Toon, Project Self-Sufficiency’s executive director. “In addition to the supplies and services which are distributed here for free, this fair provides a wonderful way to give our clients the gift of hope for a positive school year.” Project Self-Sufficiency offers a supportive family-centered environment where life issues are addressed through a combination of individual counseling, peer support groups, case management services, parenting skills training, life skills management training, home visits, childcare and early childhood education, family activities and health education. For information call 973-940-3500.