Bethlehem, Pa. — September 8, 2017 — PBS39, Lehigh Valley’s community-owned public television station, will host a Back to School Fair and Health Clinic for Bethlehem Area School District students. The fair will take place on Monday, September 18th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Broughal Middle School Gym, located at 114 W Morton St., Bethlehem, PA 18015.

As part of this special event, PBS39 has partnering with the Bethlehem Area School District (BASD) and Bethlehem Health Bureau to provide free vaccinations to BASD students in Grades K-12 who fall under the following criteria:

• Those who have no insurance
• Those whose insurance does not cover vaccinations
• Those who have medical assistance

Getting the BASD students the critical vaccines that they need is the driving force for this event. “Please plan to attend this valuable event on September 18,” said Dr. Joseph J. Roy, Superintendent of Schools, Bethlehem Area School District. “Our district is committed to providing a positive, healthy start to the school year for our students.”

Parents are advised to bring immunization records for any child participating in the vaccination program. Students in attendance will receive free school supplies and books, enjoy fun activities, and delight in the music of award-winning musician, Kira Willey. Hone and Strop Barber and Beauty Alibi by Carmen Toro will be on hand offering free hair trims for boys and girls. In addition, the Kellyn Foundation will run a raffle and information session on the Double SNAP program, which brings fresh food and educational value to neighborhoods in need. The project is also sponsored in part by St. Luke’s University Health Network, Northampton County Medical Alliance, and Thrivent Financial.

“Every year, hundreds of students return to school without the proper vaccinations,” said Teri Haddad, EdD, PBS39 Chief Learning Oficer. “We have partnered with BASD, the Bethlehem Health Bureau, and St. Luke’s Health Network to fill this critical need. When kids are healthy, they’re ready to learn. This health fair celebrates the start of a new, healthy school year!”

For additional information, contact Catherine Reifsnyder at education@wlvt.org or call PBS39 at 610-867-4677.

PBS39 is a community-owned public television station licensed to Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, Pa., serving eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey. PBS39 is owned and operated by the Lehigh Valley Public Telecommunications Corporation. PBS39 acts as the catalyst to promote civic engagement, and to fulfill the regional needs of the Greater Lehigh Valley through its dynamic communication platforms and resources. For more information, visit wlvt.org.