Back to School Fair

SUSSEX COUNTY-It's time for parents to mark their calendars for Project Self-Sufficiency's "Back to School Fair," on Friday, Aug. 26, open to all Sussex County families. Catering to both parents and children alike, the fair offers a variety of community resource information for Sussex County families, and a wide range of activities for children. Pre-registration is required by contacting Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-383-5129. According to the project's executive director, Deborah Berry-Toon, "This event stemmed from our desire to help families prepare for the usually chaotic back to school season." The fair is designed to provide families in Sussex County with resource information that will help make the school year be a positive and exciting time for parents and children alike. Children's activities will include face painting, bubble blowing, cotton candy, popcorn and an expansive playground. When parents can get their children to take a break from all the fun, a free pizza dinner and snacks will be provided to all. Sixteen different community agencies will be on hand, with information ranging from health, childcare, parenting, education and mental health. There will be representatives from Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Center for Prevention and Counseling, DASI, Ginny's House, Newton Mental Health, NORWESCAP, Project Self-Sufficiency, Sussex County Community College, Social Services, Newton Hospital Prenatal Clinic, Samaritan Inn, Sunrise House, Division of Youth and Family Services, Legal Services, Sussex County Office of Special Education, and Newton public schools. Speaking about the assistance received from community groups, the project's youth health educator, Emily Bent, commented, "We are so fortunate to have the help of Cat Heavener and Alyssa Paczkowski of Girl Scout Troop 911, who not only assisted in the creation and planning of the ‘Back To School Fair,' but helped us secure a donation of 500 backpacks filled with school supplies from Office Depot. This is a great example of how the Girl Scouts work with local agencies, businesses and community groups to make our world a better place." The Sparta Women's Club is also providing school supplies to participants, as they did last year. According to club member Dot Dedrick, "The Sparta Women's Club wholeheartedly embraces the mission of Project Self-Sufficiency for the betterment of women and children in Sussex County. We recognize how important it is for kids to have things for back to school and we are pleased to contribute to this effort." Only pre-registered families will be admitted to the fair, so register early with Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-729-8993.