RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Riverside County families gearing up for the new school year will have access to free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, and essential community resources this weekend.
The Riverside County Department of Child Support Services is hosting its 4th Annual Family Support Resource Fair and Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August 8, in recognition of Child Support Awareness Month.
The free event runs from 8 a.m. to noon at the Child Support Services office at 2081 Iowa Ave. Walk-ins are welcome, and admission is free, though organizers encourage families to register in advance online.
"As a county, few things matter more than making sure our children have what they need to thrive," said Riverside County Board of Supervisors Chair Karen Spiegel. "Events like the Family Support Resource Fair bring the whole community together — parents, local businesses, and county services — to give families a real, tangible boost heading into the new school year."
In addition to backpacks and school supplies distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, the fair will feature volunteer hairdressers from Salon Success Academy providing free children's haircuts. This year's event also includes an onsite blood drive and community partners offering free sports physicals.
Parents can connect with a wide range of local assistance programs covering employment, housing and utility assistance, veteran services, and dental care. County Child Support Services staff will also be available to help families apply for child support services, establish or modify support orders, address arrears, and connect with free legal assistance.
"Our mission goes beyond child support payments — it's about making sure every child has the foundation to succeed," said Child Support Services Director Nicole Windom-Hurd. "By bringing backpacks, haircuts, healthcare information, and dozens of community partners under one roof, we're removing barriers and reminding families across Riverside County that they don't have to navigate these challenges alone."
Several local organizations have partnered with the county to support the event. Food 4 Less contributed snacks and school supplies; the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County is providing housing, utility, and workforce resources; First 5 Riverside is offering early childhood activities; and Altura Credit Union donated additional supplies alongside financial wellness information.
Child Support Services plays a significant role in family stability across the region. Over the past year, the department provided healthcare coverage for more than 34,000 children, assisted more than 70,000 parents, and collected and redistributed over $185 million to Riverside County families.
Backpacks and supplies will be available while supplies last. Families can register ahead of time at www.surveymonkey.com/r/2026AwarenessMonthRSVP.
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