Health fair at McHenry County College offers resources for children

Submitted by McHenry County Department of Health

“Makin’ a Splash!” is the theme of the 22nd annual McHenry County Children’s Health and Safety Fair, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 1 at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14. Admission is free.

More than 1,200 children and adults visited the fair last year, providing families with not only fun activities, but also important immunizations and physicals before the start of the new school year.

This year will offer animal characters, Flight for Life helicopter, Crystal Lake Fire Department’s smoke house, child ID system and more than 40 interactive educational exhibits, including door prizes. Children are issued a card which will be stamped at each exhibitor’s booth. A completed, stamped card can be turned in for a free school supply box and enters children into a raffle for one of two new bikes and helmets.

Schedule your child’s appointment now for school physicals, for qualifying children, at the Family Health Partnership Clinic, (815) 334-8987.

Immunizations and dental exams are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Parents need to bring their child’s updated shot record. Call McHenry County Department of Health at (815) 334-4500 for immunization information. All services have a nominal fee.

The Children’s Fair Coalition partners includes Community Action Agency/Head Start, Centegra Health System, CL Graphics, Family Health Partnership Clinic, League of Women Voters of Illinois Education Fund, McHenry County College, McHenry County Department of Health, McHenry County Mental Health Board, Mercy Health System, Northwest Herald, United Way of Greater McHenry County Volunteer Center, Star 105.5, and Youth Service Bureau, Div. of Pioneer Center. The fair is also supported by organizations and volunteers who contribute time, services and/or financial donations. For more information, call MCDH at (815) 334-4510.