VAC expected to provide 800 free backpacks at Saturday fair in Columbia

Boone County parents and students who are struggling to come up with money for school supplies or health screenings are encouraged to attend tomorrow’s (Saturday) free back-to-school health fair at Columbia’s Derby Ridge elementary.

Tomorrow’s event is from 9 am to 1 pm at the school near Smiley and Rangeline and no appointment is necessary.

The Voluntary Action Center (VAC) is hosting the fair, which is open to all Boone County students.  They’ll be providing free backpacks with supplies, free COVID vaccinations and other health screenings. The VAC expects 800 students to participate, and they’re still accepting donations.

The VAC assists low-income families and residents in Boone County.