Blood pressure and bone density tests, among other medical services, will be provided free of charge by the Helen B. Bentley Family Health Center. The fair will also act as a place where residents of all ages can learn about basic nutrition.
Over the years, CEPS and the local pastors have cultivated a relationship to preserve and research the cultural and social history of the West Grove, which was settled by Bahamian laborers more than 100 years ago. A part of CEPS's mission is to work with community leaders to bring much-needed resources and support to the area. The health fair will help bring services that have historically been overlooked and disconnected in the area.
"The fair is the next step in terms of letting the not-for-profits and churches speak for themselves and advertise what they offer to the community," said Meg Kelsey, a third year law student and CEPS fellow. She said the idea for a health fair was conceived by representatives at Helen B. Bentley Family Health Center, who began to realize that many residents didn't know how to be healthy and were unaware of the affordable services the clinic offered.
Law students quickly jumped on the opportunity. They sought participation commitments from health providers and schools and began to recruit service organizations that were invested in the Grove. "We want to enable them to reach the community on their own and not have to depend on us."
Registration and breakfast will begin at 8:45 a.m. Shortly after, participants will begin trash pick up and other Grove Beautification Projects, which are still being finalized. The health fair will begin at 10 a.m.
"We're hoping that by providing these services, residents not only get treatment, but can change the way they live and have a better quality of life," Kelsey said.
Center for Ethics and Public Service Hosts First Annual Community Fair
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL 33124
305-284-2211