Hundreds of local residents visited The Salvation Army La Villita Corps this July for its annual back-to-school health and resource fair.

The Salvation Army and Aetna Better Health of Illinois started the back-to-school event last summer to help students and their families prepare for the start of the school year.

As students in Chicago prepare to return to the classroom, The Salvation Army wants to ensure they are as healthy as possible. The free community event featured numerous organizations and vendors offering resources, including blood pressure and cardiovascular health checks, to help community members get on track to a healthier self.

More than 20 partner agencies provided residents with health screenings, presentations, giveaways, prizes, and food trucks during the three-hour event.