1. Hays County Local Health Department hosts back-to-school vaccination fair
The Hays County Local Health Department is hosting a back-to-school fair to encourage student vaccinations Aug. 5 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at the department's new location at 101 Thermon Drive,San Marcos.
The HCLHD is participating in the Texas Vaccines for Children program, which provides low-cost vaccines to eligible children up to age 18 who meet the criteria. The department will continue to provide free back-to-school vaccines from Aug. 7-11, according to a news release.
“It is very important that students receive their vaccinations in the weeks prior to school starting,” HCLHD Manager Matthew Gonzales said in the news release. “Not only does this prepare the students for school, it makes it easier to obtain vaccinations without overwhelming local clinics.”
The details
The back-to-school fair will give parents and students the chance to receive free vaccinations under the TVFC program. TVFC is available for participants in the Medicaid program, those who are enrolled in the Children’s Health Insurance Program, American Indians or Alaska Natives, and uninsured or underinsured children. The vaccines provided include hepatitis A, polio, varicella, and more. Parents can find which specific vaccines are needed for the school year on their child’s school website, according to a news release.
“Vaccinations keep students healthy and protect them from diseases,” Gonzales said. “Keeping up to date on vaccinations also contributes to a healthy school environment.”
Gonzales said the event is open to the community and is family friendly.
“We will have various vendors sharing resources and details about their services, similar to the Hays County Summer Health Fair,” Gonzales said. “We will also have games set up for the children to enjoy.”
More information on the event can be found on the HCLHD website.
2. Kyle to host Back to School Bash for people with disabilities
The Kyle Parks and Recreation Department will host its first Back to School Bash for people with disabilities Aug. 11 from 5:30-8 p.m. at Gemstone Palace, 1101 Bunton Creek Road.
The free event is open to all individuals with a disability, regardless of age. Event activities include a luau-themed dance party with DJ music, swag bags and more. Snack food will also be available.
The specifics
Registration for the event is required and limited to the first 300 participants due to capacity limits at the venue. Registration is open until Aug. 11 or until all spots are filled, according to a news release. Registration information can be found at http://teamsideline.com/kyle.
Those who attend and require assistance must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Questions can be directed to Shane Boyer at 512-262-3939.
3. Shop for school
The San Marcos Back to School Shopping Bash will take place on Aug. 19-20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Tanger Outlets at 4015 I-35 S. I-35.
The Shoppers Market is hosting the event, which will include local vendors, giveaways, grand prize raffle drawing, face painting and more. The first 100 shoppers get a free back-to-school goodie bag with school supplies. Find more information at www.texasshoppersmarket.com.
4. Community School Supply Drive
The Tanger Outlets and Greater San Marcos Youth Council have teamed up to create a school supply drive for San Marcos CISD students. All supplies can be dropped off at the Levi’s or Reebok stores at the San Marcos outlet mall until Aug. 15. A list of school supplies needed can be found here.
