The W to host Little Hands, Big Health Family Resource and Health Fair Oct. 4
The Center for Education Support (CES) at Mississippi University for Women, in partnership with WISE Start and Excel by 5 of Columbus-Lowndes, will host its annual Little Hands, Big Health Family Resource and Health Fair alongside FORGE’s Little Hands, Big Trucks Saturday, Oct. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Columbus Soccer Complex.
“Events like this are wonderful opportunities to give back while putting information and resources directly into the hands of families in our community,” said Mackenzie Pearce, early childhood coordinator at The W. “When families know what support is available, it strengthens not only their children’s futures but our whole community.”
The Rowdy Foundation will sponsor a sensory-friendly hour from 9–10 a.m., ensuring the event is welcoming to all children. Families can visit the Boy Scout Hut and Farmer’s Market area to access resource tables and activities.
The fair connects families with birth-to-five supports, including childcare, early education, mental health, nutrition, job assistance, disability services, early intervention and family engagement opportunities. Special guest readers and community presenters will share stories throughout the morning, including:
- 9:15 a.m. – Emily and Scarlett, Friendly City Books
- 9:30 a.m. – Mother Goose, Columbus Public Library
- 10 a.m. – FORGE
- 10 a.m. – Miss Meridian Rose Stafford
A new Family Resource Guide for birth-to-five families in Columbus and Lowndes County will also be launched at the fair. The guide highlights local childcare, health, early education and community services, providing families with a single, easy-to-use tool to connect with available supports.
Campus partners such as The W’s Speech-Language Pathology students will also assist families by sharing resources, leading surveys and joining in the fun with Pete the Cat and Curious George mascots.
The fair draws more than 400 attendees annually and features dozens of local organizations committed to young children and their families.
Community partners interested in hosting a no-cost resource table may contact Pearce at wisestart@muw.edu.
About the School of Education at The W
For more than 140 years, The W’s School of Education has led lifelong learning from early childhood through post-graduation. We prepare teachers, support professional growth, and strengthen communities through education, empowering graduates to lead and make lasting impact across the region.