Tammy Smith, left, and Peggi Lisenbee Wright show some of the school supplies available. (Photos by Amanda McFarland)

From left, Sheila Tenner, Angie Rucker, Jen Hart and Courtney Ruggier give out breakfast items during Tools for Schools.

WARSAW — As the start of another school year approaches, the associated costs loom dark and heavy over many families’ heads.

Until 4:30 p.m. today, Combined Community Services and a list of other local organizations are at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds for the annual Tools for Schools giveaway.

Those in search of school supplies can bring a photo ID, like a driver’s license, plus proof of their children’s grade level this school year, to the fairgrounds and receive a bag, which volunteers will fill with needed school supplies, based on supply lists the schools give out.

“We try to do the best we can with what the schools give out as a supply list,” Ami Pitt of CCS said. “We can’t give the entire list, but we do the best we can.”

Aside from free school supplies, Fiesta Cuts is on site, giving fee back-to-school haircuts. Volunteers from local 4-H groups, home school groups and a number of local businesses are helping hand out supplies. WCS food services personnel are on hand with breakfast items. This afternoon, a local church will provide lunch.

Gideons and a local church are present to give away Bibles for those who are interested in receiving one.

By the end of the event, CCS personnel expect to have given out roughly 1,500 individual school supplies. Donations of supplies will be accepted throughout the day. Monetary donations are still needed, as well.