Community Health Center of Fort Dodge and Upper Des Moines Opportunity have joined forces again this year and are planning one big event for families to check off things on their back-to-school to do lists. The event called Back-to-School Block Party will be held on Aug. 6 at 126 N. 10th St.

The two local groups have scheduled many offerings for the event. The Community Health Center will have well child checks, immunizations, sports physicals and dental exams inside of the building. The healthcare services will start early before the party and continue into the evening. Appointments can be made from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. that day, then from 5 to 8 p.m. they will accept walk-ins for services. You can call 515-576-6500 to schedule.

Upper Des Moines Opportunity with the help of Linda Cline and her 4-H club, will have backpacks of school supplies to distribute to Webster County students. Parents can apply now for a backpack that will contain the supplies needed for the grade and school the student attends. Applications are available at their office located at 704 Central Ave., Suite 200, or by calling 515-576-7774. Backpacks can be picked up from 5 to 8 p.m. during the Aug. 6 block party.

In addition, local organizations and businesses will be providing resources and games in the parking lot.

“At 5 pm is when the real party starts,” said Regina Suhrbier, outreach coordinator at Community Health Center. “Business and organizations will be set up with booths of activities. From free socks to games and an inflatable, it will be a fun event for all.” she added.

“We have the Webster County Pork Producers grilling and will serve a free meal that starts at 5 p.m.” said Dianna Georg, outreach specialist for Upper Des Moines Opportunity. “The meal includes a pork burger, baked beans, chips and a cookie. The meal is made possible by local business donating the food and drinks.”

The event is free and open to the public. The activities, backpacks and meal will all be in the parking lot behind Community Health Center of Fort Dodge, while the healthcare services will take place inside the building. A complete list of community participants and activities can be found on their event page on Facebook. Those with questions or those seeking additional information can call Suhrbier at 515-576-6500 or Georg at 515-576-7774.