Alva Review-Courier -

DUNCAN, Okla. (AP) — Making sure every child has the needed supplies for the beginning of school is something Stephens County takes very seriously, which is why for more than a decade Fiesta in Fuqua has gone on to help families in need have some fun while getting help.

This year is no different, but those behind the scenes might be different. For the first year, Pathways for a Healthier You (formerly Pathways to a Healthy Stephens County) has taken the wheel with help from its friends.

This year Fiesta in Fuqua is from 8 to 11 a.m. Aug. 3 in Fuqua Park. There will be games, activities, food and school supplies, all while supplies last.

This year students will have to go to five games before they can go get a backpack filled with school supplies, The Duncan Banner reported.

Kim Whaley, Pathways director and Fiesta committee member, said Pathways was glad to be part of Fiesta in Fuqua.

"This is important for Pathways because we are trying to instill in not only our young people but also their families and their parents and people that are taking care of them how important it is to take care of themselves," she said. "So from general hygiene — cutting your hair, brushing your teeth, how important that is, to having school supplies to go back to school in the fall and not be embarrassed because you didn't have them."

Now, the committee is looking for help from the county as they are doing things a little different. Right now they have ordered backpacks and supplies but need more monetary help to make sure all the children get help. All donations will be tax deductible.

The committee is expecting more children this year as they are partnering with the Stone Chapel Church's "Back to School Bash," to create one community event.

Whaley said they were expecting around 1,000 students.

The committee is also working on transportation so everyone can get to Fuqua easily, more details to come.

Vendors can be anyone so long as they have a game or something that promotes a healthy lifestyle — which includes stylists and barbers willing to loan their skills to help get as many kids ready for the new school year.

Jennie Bowden, Fiesta committee member, said she volunteers now because of the help she received as a child.

"I grew up in this community and I was a child in need — I was a Jaycee kid. I was someone that needed help from others," she said. "People came along side me and they helped me with things — this community helped me. Now, I just want to give back. I have the ability now to volunteer and be a part of helping others and that's why I do it."