Free kids health fair offered in McHenry

Submitted by McHenry County Department of Health

The annual McHenry County Children’s Health & Safety Fair, now in its 21st year, will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, in Crystal Lake. Admission is free.

This year’s theme is “Makin’ a Splash!” With more than 40 exhibits, games and prizes and the fire department’s “smoke house,” the fair delivers on its promise to entertain and educate.

Children will be entered into a raffle to win one of two free bicycles and helmets when they turn in their stamped cards after visiting exhibitors’ booths.

Reduced cost immunizations and dental exams will be provided for school-age children on a first-come first-served basis. Medicaid will be accepted. Parents must bring their child’s updated immunization record in order to receive required immunizations. A limited number of reduced cost school physicals are available — by appointment only — for children of uninsured or underinsured families. Make your appointment now by calling the Family Health Partnership Clinic (815) 334-8987.

The fair is sponsored by the McHenry County Children’s Health & Safety Fair Coalition, a 501(c)(3) organization that has seen a reduction in funds this year. In order to keep this a free event to families and participating agencies, the coalition is encouraging organizations wishing to make monetary donations to contact Mary Reid at (815) 338-8790.

Coalition members include Community Action Agency/Head Start, Centegra Health System, CL Graphics, Family Health Partnership Clinic, Family Service & Community Mental Health Center, League of Women Voters of Illinois Education Fund, McHenry County College, McHenry County Department of Health, McHenry County Mental Health Board, United Way of Greater McHenry County Volunteer Center, STAR 105.5 and Youth Service Bureau.