POTSDAM -- The Potsdam Snack Pack Program will host the first "Back to School Fair" on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The event is co-sponsored by the Potsdam Central School District and Chamber of Commerce.

The fair will be held on the grounds of New Hope Community Church, located at 33 Grant St.

With almost 500 students receiving free or reduced lunch, many families in the community face significant financial pressure getting their children ready for school, said a press release from the program.

At the fair students can receive free school supplies, hygiene items, haircuts, vision screening, and other necessities. Throughout the course of the day, children can participate in activities (carnival games, bounce house, obstacle course, face painting), and enjoy free food and entertainment.

Resource providers from various organizations will be on hand to answer questions about other services available to families in the local community.

Current participants include: The People Project (distributing free children's books), Potsdam Library Children's Librarian, Canton-Potsdam Hospital (Dr. T. Bear), North Country Crusaders, Operation Safe Child, Maximizing Independent Living Choices, Reachout, and Youth Sports.

Also, parents will have the opportunity to meet with a food service representative and get help filling out the forms for free or reduced lunch.

Buses will stop at four locations throughout the day to pick up families and transport them to the venue. The loop will start from Debra Drive at 11 a.m., and continue on to Meadow East, Evergreen Park, and Swan Landing.

Info: info@potsdamsnackpack.org.