NEW ULM — Brown County Human Services is partnering with the United Way and the Heart of New Ulm for their annual student backpack distribution 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4 at the New Ulm Civic Center.

The event is open to all community members who register in advance for a free backpack through Untied Way of Brown County. Brown County children in grades K-12 who qualify for school educational benefits like free and reduced lunches are eligible to participate.

Brown County Human Services Director Anne Broskoff told commissioners United Way, Heart of New Ulm and other community organizations joined together for the backpack event.

A community resource fair will be held 3-7 p.m. at the New Ulm Civic Center for families picking up backpacks and for other families too.

Shoes will be available 4 to 6:30 p.m. Haircuts from Ed’s Chop Shop, New Ulm Roots Salon and Heat Salon will be available. Food and other products including hygiene items and treats will be available on a first come, first served basis.

“The Drawer, a Twin Cities organization will offer new underwear and socks,” said Broskoff.

She said Brown County Public Health will have information about the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and human services income maintenance staff will provide benefit applications, early childhood education and a few other organizations will be there.

Commissioner Scott Windschitl praised the event.

“I think this is about basic level things that people need for those that may have trouble coming up with extra cash for,” he said. “I certainly think this is a good idea.”

Families must register online by Friday, July 24 at https://www.uwbrowncounty.org/unitedwaway-backpack-project.

Completed applications can be dropped off at the United Way office, 108 N. Minnesota St., New Ulm or mail completed applications to United Way of the Brown County Area, PO Box 476, New Ulm, 56073 or email a completed application to admin@umbrowncounty.org.