New Mercies Christian Church will host one of Gwinnett's largest school supply give-aways for needy families.

The back-to-school festival will be held today from 5 to 10 p.m. at the church, 4000 Five Forks Trickum Road, Lilburn.

Last summer, New Mercies distributed 1,000 bags filled with pencils, folders, notebooks and other materials to children attending the annual event, which is open to the public.

This year's family festival will include entertainment, free food and activities for children. For more information, call the church at 770-925-8600.

SCHOOL CALENDAR

> Monday —- First day of school

> Sept. 1 —- Labor Day holiday

> Oct. 13 —- Teacher planning day; student holiday

> Nov. 4 —- Election Day; school holiday

> Nov. 26-28 —- Thanksgiving holiday

> Dec. 22-Jan. 1 —- Winter break