Liberty Residence I, an independent living center located at 250 Smokerise Drive, will host a Touch-a-Truck charity event from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday.

The charity event will help United Way of Medina County's Stuff-A-Bus Campaign gather new school supplies. Those who attend the event have the option of bringing supplies including notebooks, pencils, erasers, markers, hand sanitizer, back packs, combination locks, scientific calculators and other articles needed by children going to school.

According to information supplied by the center, one in five children are at risk of being unprepared for the first day of school.

The event will also include a safety program will, which will feature a fire truck, ambulance and a police cruiser from the Wadsworth departments with personnel on hand to explain the vehicles.

In addition, Ozzie, a K-9 dog will be on hand along with Patches," the talking robotic Dalmatian in a small fire engine, which talks to the children about fire prevention.

Bev Long, Marketing and Admissions Director for Liberty I and Liberty Residence II facilities, said Patches will be brought in by the Erhart York Township fire department located in Wayne County. Long said "kids love Patches."

In addition, Jo Jo and Mo Jo the clowns will provide balloon animals for the children. Long said the clowns are from Cuyahoga Falls and were a part of the Wadsworths Blue Tip Parade held in June.

Tours of the facility will be available for those who want to see the amenities offered by Liberty I.

Complimentary food will be available. Charter One Back will offer door prizes.

The event will be held rain or shine. More information can be obtained by calling 330-336-3616.

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Liberty Residence I in Wadsworth to host school supply donation drive Thursday