Free health screenings, food, entertainment and games for children were enjoyed by about 300 people who attended a health fair on May 3 in Little Rock that was a true community collaboration. The event was hosted by St. Edward Catholic Church and was held at Catholic High School for Boys as part of the church’s celebration of Cinco de Mayo
Father Jason Tyler of St. Edward Catholic Church initiated plans for the event and invited the Mexican Consulate and its Ventallia de Salud program to take part. That invitation was extended to the UAMS Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health (COPH), the Consulate’s fiscal agent and frequent partner on community events for the Hispanic community. The COPH provided organizational and planning support for the event, in which about 20 other agencies and organizations took part.
The Arkansas Human Development Corporation (AHDC), also a lead organizer of the event, provided HIV tests. The Arkansas Psychological Association offered depression and anxiety screenings and mental health consultations. The Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Arkansas counseled adults and children about the harms of tobacco use. St. Vincent Community Outreach provided blood pressure and blood glucose tests.
There was also food and fun. The Arkansas Cancer Society provided support for food vendors providing meals. There was a performance of traditional dances, a talent show, and soccer and basketball games organized by St. Edward’s. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, the Arkansas Department of Health and other organizations also pitched in with donated meals, toys and gift cards for attendees.
“All of us are very pleased with the success,” Elvira Wendrell, Program Specialist for the UAMS COPH Mexican Consulate Ventanilla de Salud, and Sue Espinoza, AHDC Outreach Health Coordinator, wrote in their report about the event to all organizations that took part.