Lighthouse Covenant Ministries in Youngstown's "Back to School Carnival" began kicked off today Aug. 16.

The event, being held on Youngstown's east side on Shehy Street, offers rides, fair food and games.

However, it's also offering haircuts and hair braiding for the students getting ready to return to the classroom.

Notebooks, pens, pencils, bookbags and other items will be given out beginning at noon tomorrow.

Pastor Wilena Scott says they want to help people get a head start.

"A lot of people just don't have it or if they do, they're hard pressed because of the other things they need to purchase," Scott said. "We want to at at least be an assistance to them. Maybe we don't have everything you need but we can at least give you a head start."

Scott said she hopes to see up to 100 people at the distribution.

The event will go until Saturday Aug. 17.