U-46 communities hosting back-to-school events this week

Elgin Area School District U-46 communities are hosting back-to-school events this week in preparation for the first day of classes on Aug. 15.

The annual Hanover Township backpack distribution is at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the Astor Avenue Community Center, 7431 Astor Ave., Hanover Park. Students in kindergarten through eighth grade can receive a backpack with school supplies while they last. Students must show proof of township residency.

U-46's Health Services department will host a health fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday at Streamwood High School, 701 W. Schaumburg Road. Advocate Healthcare, VNA Health Care, Jewel-Osco, CVS Minute Clinic and Greater Elgin Family Care Center will provide physicals and immunizations on a first-come, first-served basis to students with private, public or no insurance.

U-46 also is among the sponsors of the ninth annual Project Backpack supply fair at Elgin Community College Saturday. The event is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or while supplies last in Building J at ECC, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin.

Backpacks and supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to one backpack per student. Recipients must provide proof of fall registration at ECC or enrollment/residency within U-46, Community Unit District 300, Burlington Central Unit District 301, St. Charles Unit District 303 or Keeneyville District 20.

Since 2010, Project Backpack has distributed more than 17,000 backpacks. To make a donation, visit project-backpack.com.