Kent business to hold back-to-school event as season winds down

With so many costs continuing to rise, parents might be finding themselves in a tough spot during this year's back-to-school season.

While most organizations across Portage County have already held their back-to-school events, distributing supplies to those in need, there is at least one more happening Saturday.

Starting at 8 a.m. at Unique Natural Body Esthetics, located at 1704 E. Main St. in Kent, parents in need of pens, pencils, backpacks, and more can come get what they need to get get their child ready for the school year.

More:Dozens get free backpacks, school supplies at King Kennedy Community Center event

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Aside from the start time, said owner Connie Williams, there is no set time frame. Only two things will stop the distribution: running out of steam or running out of supplies.

There is no income requirement, Williams said. People who need something should feel free to come and get it.

Additionally, Williams is still accepting donations. Book bags, lunch bags, folders, notebooks, crayons, pens, pencils, tissues, sanitizing wipes and anything else school-related are listed as needed items on the event flyer.

Food will be served as well, she said. Attendees can expect a home-cooked breakfast and lunch.

On Aug. 13, the King Kennedy Community Center (KKCC), held a soiree in the parking lot with free backpacks and supplies with which to fill them, as well as providing some last-minute summer fun for the kids.

Myia Sanders, KKCC's program manager, said the center provided 160 families with school supplies and 200 people attended.

Likewise, the Community Action Council of Portage County depleted the supplies it had on hand, distributing them through its Back to School Bash at Ravenna High School and its summer food program sites.

The Salvation Army of Portage County has distributed all of the supplies it had for this year's back-to-school season as well.

Family and Community Services had a successful drive through Kent Social Services and Center of Hope, said Heather Laliberte, the organization's director of grants and development.

According to the Ravenna Center of Hope's Facebook page, assistance was provided to 340 children from more than 162 families with FCS's assistance.

Mark Frisone, Family and Community Service's executive director, said people who might not have signed up in time for any of the giveaway events could still contact the agency for help.

"FCS feels strongly that kids need to be prepared for school, and part of that preparation is adequate school supplies," Frisone wrote in an email to the Record-Courier.  "To that end, FCS will continue to provide school supplies for those who may not have signed up for other give-a-ways.  At least until we run out of everything.  Down to the last pencil.  Those interested can call 330-673-6963."

Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com