Press Release

For immediate release July 14, 2010
Contact: John Althardt, (317) 221-2316

More Than 20,000 Expected to Celebrate 10th Year of Back to School Event

They will come before sunrise and the last person will leave more than eight hours later. Many will stand for three hours before the main gates open. At the end of the day, organizers expect more than 20,000 adults and children to attend.

This is the backdrop for the 10th Annual Covering Kids and Families Back to School Day. The July 31 event, hosted by the Marion County Health Department, 3838 North Rural Street, will run from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and is the largest event of its kind in the city. "Celebrating 10 Years of Serving the Community" is the theme of this year's event.

Health screenings, the opportunity to enroll in free and reduced price health insurance, health information, back to school immunizations, games, entertainment and back to school supplies will be part of the annual summer event.

Backpacks will be handed out to school-aged children.

Families wanting school supplies for their children must bring their children with them.

Those needing back to school immunizations should bring current shot records with them. School-aged children will receive their immunizations at no charge. The Indiana State Department of Health has issued new immunization requirements for many school-aged children, and those shots will be available at the back to school event.

Dental and other screenings also will be available.

"In order for our children to be truly prepared for school they must be healthy and have the appropriate supplies. We are proud to make both health screenings and basic school supplies available to our community," said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director, Marion County Health Department.

Individuals wanting birth certificates for school enrollment can purchase the documents during the Covering Kids and Families Back to School Day.

The Indianapolis Fire Department will have a large presence with its Fire Safety Festival, a high-energy area featuring music, food, interactive displays and other educational opportunities. More than 50 community organizations will be on hand with various displays and information.

Raffles and prizes will be offered throughout the day.

Those with questions about the event can call 221-2464.