In one morning, Danielle Whetstone browsed low-cost childcare options, chatted with employment agencies, and researched health and wellness programs.

The Arlington mother of two attended the Community Resource Fair on Saturday to learn more about activities and services available in the community.

"I love this,' said Whetstone, who recently completed a degree in social work at the University of Texas at Arlington. "It's helpful to have all of these programs under one roof, rather than us having to go out and try to find everything on our own.'

The second annual event, sponsored by Arlington Independent School District, aimed to make Arlington families aware of available community services. Representatives from more than 80 organizations from across North Texas - including Head Start, Easter Seals, JPS Health and United Way - were on hand to answer questions and provide information.

Electra Kitchin, AISD coordinator for dropout prevention, said families seek assistance for a variety of reasons, including job loss or financial woes, health problems and special education need.

Help is available, but navigating various aid agencies can be difficult for time-strapped families, said Antrice Newsome, AISD special education coordinator. Schools can help lessen that burden.

"We want parents to know we are looking at the needs of the entire family,' Newsome said. "We look at the whole child and what they need to be successful.'

Susan Diaz, who attended the fair with her 9-year-old son, Daniel, said she was pleased to learn about the educational assistance available to students and families.

"I was not familiar with most of these organizations,' Diaz said. "It's good to know where to turn for help.'

As a working mother and college student, Whetstone said she has relied on organizations such as the YWCA and Head Start to help her children.

"I could not have done everything without the help of the community,' said Whetstone, who attended with her daughters, Zahria, 10, and Trinitee, 9. "I would love to see more of these fairs and community outreach.'