By Rebecca Lazer
As the new school year approaches, the Bessler Center at Mary Bridge Children’s is here to help families check off one of the most important items on their back-to-school readiness list: vaccinations. Staying up to date on immunizations is not only required for school attendance — it’s also a vital step in protecting your child’s health and the well-being of their community.
Thanks to support from Acts Pharmacy and the Pierce County Medical Reserve Corps, the Bessler Center is proud to offer three free vaccine clinic events this summer. These clinics are open to eligible families and provide an easy, no-cost way to ensure every child in our community is ready for the classroom.
Upcoming free vaccine clinics
1. Caring for Kids Ready to Learn Fair
Saturday, Aug. 9 | 9am–noon
Location: Harrison Preparatory School, 9103 Lakewood Drive SW, Lakewood, WA
Eligibility: Students in Clover Park, Steilacoom and University Place school districts only.
This clinic is a convenient option for families in these districts to get students vaccinated before the first bell rings. Note: Preregistration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome.
2. Get Back-to-School Ready with Multicultural Child & Family Hope Center
Tuesday, Aug. 12 | Noon-5pm
Location: Multicultural Child & Family Hope Center, 2021 S. 19 St., Tacoma, WA
Get your child ready for school and catch up on their medical, dental and vaccines. Open to everyone, this free community event includes:
- Free vaccinations for children (Note: Preregistration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.)
- Physical exams
- Preventive dental care
- Learn about and register for Apple Health (Medicaid)
- No insurance required
3. Tacoma Police Department’s Kids Health & Safety Fair
Saturday, Aug. 23 | 10am–1pm
Location: Eastside Community Center, 1721 E. 56th St., Tacoma, WA
Be school-ready on day one and join us for another opportunity to receive free vaccinations, along with access to health resources and community support.
Kids can receive free:
- Free vaccinations (Note: Preregistration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.)
- Special spin-the-wheel giveaways for receiving recommended vaccines
- Backpacks and personal care bags
- Coats
- Haircuts
- Dental cleanings and more
More ways to prepare for back-to-school season
Vaccines are just one piece of the back-to-school puzzle. We’ve compiled a helpful collection of resources to support your child’s physical and emotional well-being as they transition back to the classroom:
Managing back-to-school anxiety
Learn how to ease first-day jitters and support your child’s mental health — and your own.
Healthy habits for school success
From sleep routines to morning checklists, discover six tips to help your child thrive.
Immunization guide
Understand which vaccines are required, how to access records and how to calm shot-related fears.
Packing nutritious lunches
Get creative with lunch ideas that are both healthy and kid-approved.
Transportation safety
Review essential safety tips for walking, biking, bussing or driving to school.
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