The Berrien County Health Department is hosting two back to school events featuring necessary health care services to prepare students for the upcoming school year.

The first “Back to School Bash” event is Monday, Aug. 1 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Health Department’s Benton Harbor Office, 2149 E. Napier Ave. The second event will be Wednesday, Aug. 3 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at BCHD’s Niles office, 1205 N. Front St.

The events will include a variety of health services for students, including immunizations, blood lead screenings, hearing and vision screenings, and more. Michigan state law requires that children receive certain immunizations against infectious diseases such as measles, chickenpox, whooping cough and hepatitis B before entering school. Children entering kindergarten are also required to have their hearing and vision screened.

There will be activities for all ages at each event including seed planting, face painting and a visit from Spider Man. Community members can also find information about local resources including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC, parenting classes and health insurance assistance.

“We know going back to school can be especially busy for families as they prepare for the upcoming year,” said Health Officer Guy Miller. “By offering services and resources at one convenient event, we hope to make it easier for families to check some things off their to-do list while helping kids prepare for a healthy academic year.”

Individuals with private insurance, Medicaid or without insurance are all welcome to attend and access services.

Find more information, visit bchdmi.org