In a continuing effort to combat identity theft in the Lehigh Valley, State Rep. Justin Simmons, R-131st, encouraged local residents and businesses to take advantage of his free shredder event 10 a.m. to noon June 8 in Village Center, 21 North Main St., Coopersburg.

"We all know that identity theft is a growing problem locally and nationwide," Simmons said. "Now, more than ever, we need to protect our private information and make sure it is destroyed properly.

"I am pleased that my office is able to provide the community with the ability to shred large amounts of documents, and the best part is – it's free."

Residents and businesses are urged to bring documents that contain sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, medical information or bank account numbers, to be thoroughly shredded, free of charge. The limit is four bags or boxes of paperwork per vehicle.