BENTON HARBOR — Summer is drawing to a close, which means that parents are getting their kids ready to head back to school. Beyond buying school supplies and new outfits, it can be important to make sure children are healthy and ready to learn when getting back to the classroom.

The Berrien County Health Department will host the third annual Back to School Bash from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 28, at the main office located at 2149 E. Napier Ave. in Benton Harbor to help parents get their kids ready for a healthy school year.

The Health Department will provide free hearing and vision screenings, immunizations required for school entry, healthy snacks, activities and giveaways for children of all ages, as well as information about WIC, parenting education, health insurance assistance and many other programs and services that can benefit families in Berrien County.

Representatives from local law enforcement will be at the event with the goal to build positive relationships between police departments and the community, allowing children the opportunity to see inside police cars and a fire truck. Other community agencies, such as the Berrien County Great Start Collaborative, the Lions Club Project KidSight and Michigan Child ID will also be in attendance.

“The Berrien County Health Department is happy to help make the transition easier, happier and healthier for parents and kids during this back to school season. We know that it can be a busy and stressful time for everyone,” said Health Officer, Nicki Britten.

In order to help keep children healthy and make sure they are ready to learn Michigan state law requires that children receive certain immunizations before entering school. Additionally, children entering preschool and kindergarten are required to have their hearing and vision screened. Parents can find more information about these school requirements and the Back to School Bash at bchdmi.org or by calling (269) 926-7121.