MERIL’s Fall Festival is scheduled this Friday, October 14, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The event is hosted by Midland Empire Resources for Independent Living (MERIL), and features free food and games, as well as information for wellness and independent living.

Julie Simmons, a MERIL employee, served as the chair for organizing the event.

“This is just a great, family-friendly way for people to have some Fall fun and to learn about some of the resources we have in the community,” Simmons said. “We’ll have face painting, pumpkin decorating, balloon animals, a costume contest, decorated trunks with treats, and a lot of other fun things.”

Adults and children are invited to the free event at 4420 South 40th Street in St. Joseph.

Organizations participating in the event include the St. Joseph police and fire departments, Friends of the Animal Shelter of St. Joseph, Northwest Health Services, Crossroads Deaf Club, and People First.