On August 22, 2015, families received free health screenings, vaccines for children to start their school year, and useful resources and information at the third annual Health Fair and Back-to-School Celebration. Approximately 300 community members attended the event held at the Joe and Vi Jacobs Center in Southeast San Diego. Hosted by Assemblymember Dr. Shirley Weber’s office, in partnership with the San Diego Black Nurses Association – a recognized Live Well San Diego partner, the free community event included a wide variety of educational activities and a back-to-school backpack giveaway. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about legislation, programs and resources in their community to help improve their health and the quality of their lives.

The health screenings were offered by an array of community organizations including the Diamond Neighborhoods Family Health Center, Kaiser Permanente, San Ysidro Health Center, UCSD Health Systems, La Maestra’s mobile health clinic and Sharp Health Care. Services and screenings included glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, eye disease, kidney disease screenings, TDAP vaccine, HIV testing, mammograms, and renal function tests as well as Ask the Pharmacist, Ask a Doctor, and Ask a Nurse opportunities. San Diego Immunization Registry also screened many children to determine their need for the Tdap vaccine.

The County’s Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) Central Region was also represented in full force. Central Region Public Health Nurses provided vaccines and hosted a resource table with interactive games for adults and children. They also offered information on Central Region’s Public Health clinic services and home visiting programs, as well as “It’s Up to Us” mental health campaign information. Central Region Southeast Family Resource Center (FRC) staff hosted a resource table to inform community members about available HHSA services and answered general questions regarding eligibility.

“The event’s focus on health and wellness clearly aligns with the County’s Live Well San Diego vision of fostering a healthy, safe and thriving San Diego for all residents by connecting community members to resources and outreach opportunities in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner,” said Barbara Jiménez, Director for the County’s HHSA Central and South Regions.

Fun and interactive activities were held outside in the parking lot and grass section of Jacob’s Center to engage all participants in healthy and fun exercises and dance classes.  San Diego Police Department’s Cruiser Low Rider squad car was on display for all to view. Live Well San Diego message signs helped inform and remind participants of important health and safety facts and actions they can take to improve their own and their family’s well-being. Overall, the event was an opportunity for County staff and community partners to come together to share the word of Live Well San Diego. 

Other exhibitors included Catholic Charities, Walgreens, Sylvan Learning Center, Black Infant Health, HHSA Foster and Adoptive Resource Family Services, Girl Scouts, Rady Children’s Hospital, City of San Diego Environmental Services, 211 San Diego, HHSA Aging and Independence Services, Planned Parenthood, Sharp Community Health Library, American Diabetes Association, San Diego National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Philippine Nurses Association, Susan G. Komen foundation, Caring Hearts Medical foundation, and Bridge of Life.