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Families struggling under the weight of the economic downturn and back-to-school costs can get a break at this week's annual CARE Fair.

Free immunizations, dental and vision screenings, and physicals are among the services that will be available to families in need. CARE stands for Children's Assistance and Resource Event.

This year's two-day event begins Friday at Sunnyside High School.

The fair's mission is to provide "one-stop shopping" for families at the start of school.

There will be information about food, rent and education assistance, as well as school supplies, safety instruction and equipment such as car seats, bike helmets and gun locks.

All services are free.

Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a physical exam.

Some agencies will have eligibility requirements. Documentation such as voter registration cards, driver's licenses, six to 12 months of paycheck stubs, and proof of residence may be required to obtain some services.

About 10,000 children and adults typically attend the event, which began in Tucson in 1989.

The fair is a good opportunity for parents with children about to start sixth grade to get new state-mandated immunizations — one dose of meningococcal vaccine and one dose of TDAP, or tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis vaccine.

Students must have proof of their immunizations before they'll be allowed into the sixth grade in Arizona. The only exemptions allowed are for a parent's personal beliefs, which must be documented; if a physician provides documentation that the vaccine isn't a good idea for a particular student; or if there is laboratory evidence the student has immunity.