For Immediate Release - Milwaukee



For Immediate Release Media Contact: Kawanza Newson

August 15, 2008 414-286-3548 Office

414-732-7250 Cell

CITY OF MILWAUKEE HEALTH DEPARTMENT

PROMOTES SCHOOL READINESS

8th Annual Back to School Health Fair Aims to Reach 5,000 Kids

Free immunizations and school supplies will be given to students who attend the City of Milwaukee Health Department’s (MHD) 8th Annual Back to School Health Fair on Friday, August 15, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at South Division High School located at 1515 W. Lapham Boulevard.

The event, which is hosted in conjunction with several community partners, will also feature health screening booths and staff to assist in requesting Medicaid, Badger Care and free or reduced school lunches.

In addition, this event will be the site of the official launch of the MHD’s Back-to-School Immunization campaign called “Super Kids Get Immunized.” The Super Kids campaign will be marketed and promoted through county transit ads on buses with routes throughout targeted Milwaukee neighborhoods. The campaign will be utilized throughout the 2008-2009 school year to provide consistent messaging about the importance of getting vaccinated against childhood diseases.

There will also be guest appearances by the Milwaukee Super Kids, an elite group of students who protect their bodies against several illnesses through vaccination.

Recent reports show that immunization compliance rates have significantly improved within Milwaukee Public Schools, thanks to collaborations between the MHD, Mayor’s Office, Milwaukee Public School System and the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office.

Each year, the MHD’s Medical Assistance Outreach Program holds this free event to promote school readiness.

“This comprehensive health fair allows parents to make sure their kids are in the best shape to begin the school year,” said Bevan K. Baker, Commissioner of Health.

“We know that budgets are tight and much is needed to get a child equipped for the school year,” he said. “That’s why we’re offering school supplies as an incentive for health checks.”

Children must be accompanied by an adult to receive the school supplies, which will be available on a first-come first-served basis while supplies last. Parents are asked to bring a copy of their child’s immunization record.

Free lunch and entertainment will also be provided.

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