DOVER — The first day of school is around the corner, so to make sure students are well equipped two first-time events will make sure kids are prepared.

Restoring Central Delaware will host an event today to give away book bags and school supplies, as well as provide free haircuts and hair styles for all boys and girls ages 6-13.

The event is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Loockerman Plaza in Dover.

“We thought it would be a good way to assist kids in the central Dover area,” said Joe Myer, executive director of National Council on Agricultural Life and Labor.

Janaid’s Salon for Men, Studio J Unisex Salon, Beehive Salon and Cheveux Salon are some of the businesses that will give away free haircuts and hairstyles for the kids.

On Monday, Kingdom Life Fellowship Ministries will hold a similar event.

The event starts at 9 a.m. There isn’t a set time as to when it will end.

It will be held at the Rodney Village Shopping Center with free haircuts and hairstyles for all boys and girls ages 6-12.

“This is our first year doing this,” said Angel Houston, a member of Kingdom Life Fellowship Ministries. “Many different programs offer school supplies, but this year we are providing hair services as well.

“The event was started to give back to the community. It’s a collaboration between Majestic Hair Images and Kingdom Life Fellowship Ministries Outreach program.”

Ms. Houston said providing hair services to the children will greatly benefit kids.

“Many children in the area, between the ages of 6-12, don’t get the opportunity to get their hair done and to get pampered for even a moment and in this century it is so important for a child to feel good about themselves and to feel important to someone,” Ms. Houston said.

“The first day of school has always been such a significant day of new beginnings and a fresh start to every child and we hope that they get the best fresh start we can provide.”

There will be stylists from the Dover and Smyrna areas volunteering to provide their services.

No appointments will be necessary. It will be first-come, first-serve. Giveaways and prizes will be made as the day continues.

“We expect to give away around 100 book bags and supplies,” Ms. Houston said. “The book bags being given away have been bought and donated by Majestic Hair Images, Kingdom Life Fellowship Ministries and other anonymous donors.

“There weren’t any fundraisers, but there were donations of money, time and talent from Majestic Hair Images, Kingdom Life Fellowship Ministries and many others to make this event happen and to ensure that the kids in the community are blessed.”

Ms. Houston expects a great turnout.

“It’s important to hold events like this so we can support our children in their educational goals and to encourage them to succeed in life,” Ms. Houston said.

“We want to participate in sharing and caring to and for individuals and children within our community,” she added.

“It takes a village to raise a child, and we desire to be a part of that village to give our children the tools and the start they need to succeed at being great and successful patrons of society.”