GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- It's back to school time and that means it can also get quite expensive.
Grand Rapids Public Schools hoped to help aid in the cost and teamed up with John Ball Zoo for a back to school celebration.
The Jones' family aren't strangers to the event.
"We come here every year it’s awesome," said Kathleen Jones. "I told the girls if you can’t get anything make sure you get pencils so we have enough pencils for the year."
School supplies aren't cheap and with a large family the cost adds up fast.
"You have to go to anything that’s free. I’m a couponer, so that gets us through," said Jones.
The event was free for families. Giveaways and raffles also drew interest. There was also information on school enrollment, after school programs and school safety.
The purpose of the event was to make it all easy and fun.
"I think a lot of people are ready to get back to school and know what they want they need to get their child ready day one, said John Helmholdt, the Executive Director of Communications and External Affairs for GRPS.
For more information, visit the Grand Rapids Public School's website here.
