Tools for Schools giveaway is underway at the Kosciusko County fairgrounds.

[Update: According to Ami Pitt, a coordinator at Tools for Schools, approximately 1,008 children had visited the event for free school supplies, backpacks, haircuts and even face painting by noon today. Pitt noted glue, scissors, two pocket folders, three ring binders and backpacks are all in very short supply. Anyone looking to donate to the event may drop off supplies to the front door where they will be sorted for distribution. 

Pitt stated that people began lining up for the event at 3 a.m. this morning with many children carrying sleeping bags. A total of 288 families have been given school supplies and many more are expected to attend the event before its closing at 4 p.m.]

Hundreds of people lined up early this morning for the annual school supplies giveaway provided by Combined Community Services and made possible by many donations and sponsors.

Tools for School offers families the ultimate opportunity to prepare students for going back to school with all of the necessary supplies. The giveaway is happening today until 4 p.m. at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds.

Students can get breakfast from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. that is served by Warsaw Community Schools Food Services Department. Throughout the day, many agencies will have tables at the event with information for parents and children.

Kids will be entertained with face painting and can even receive free hair cuts by volunteer stylists from Fiesta hair salon.

Parents or guardians need to bring proof of Kosciusko County residency and proof that the children live in the home or that they are the designated person to pick up supplies. It is recommended that a school registration is the best documentation to prove residency. These can be printed or picked up from school offices.

CCS Emergency Assistance Program works very closely with community school drives and other agencies to assure that duplication of services does not happen.

Backpacks filled with school supplies have been supplied by MDwise during the event and Amy Kanouse, an MDwise representative for Kosciusko County, will be in attendance at the event providing information on healthcare insurance for families.

If you have questions, call Peggi at 574-269-6019 x222 or Lindsey at 574-269-6019 x230.