This weekend, MCR Health is bringing back its highly anticipated health fair to Arcadia, providing essential health services at no cost to the community.
Scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the health fair will take place at the Turner Agri-Civic Center, located at 2250 NE Roan St. MCR Health, a non-profit healthcare system, extends its services across Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, and Pasco counties.
This marks the second year that MCR Health has organized the health fair in Arcadia, and Esparanza Gamboa, MCR’s Director of Outreach and Community Affairs, anticipates an even larger turnout than last year, which saw over 500 attendees.
President and CEO Melvin Price emphasized that the Health Fair aligns with MCR’s mission of making healthcare accessible to all communities, irrespective of their financial capabilities. The aim is to provide high-quality healthcare and raise health awareness within the community, fostering a collaborative approach to holistic healthcare.
Price highlighted the choice of Arcadia as the event location due to the pressing need. DeSoto County exhibits a high uninsured rate of 24% among those under 65, surpassing both state (15.1%) and national (7.9%) averages, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Comparatively, Sarasota County’s uninsured rate stands at 14.8%, and Manatee County’s at 16.5%.
The Health Fair will center on preventive care and healthy living, featuring a variety of complimentary activities including health screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, dental, vision, mammograms, COVID-19 vaccines, and BMI calculations. Attendees can also enjoy an interactive Zumba demonstration, live performances by DJ JT Money, Renesito Avich, Jah Movement, and the 301 Travelers, as well as gain valuable insights from local health and wellness organizations at booths showcasing services, programs, and resources. All Faiths Food Bank will provide free bagged food and vegetables, complemented by free snacks and refreshments courtesy of Tropicana. Food trucks, free haircuts, and free backpacks will also be available while supplies last. Kids can participate in fitness challenges, and informative talks will be offered for parents.
While the event promises fun and entertainment, Price emphasized that the primary objective is to educate attendees on preventive healthcare measures, ultimately reducing the cost and urgency of emergency services.
For more information about the MCR Health Fair 2023, including event details and a schedule of activities, please contact Esparanza Gamboa at 941-875-6844 or [email protected].
Sarah Owens covers DeSoto County for the Community News Collaborative and can be reached at [email protected].
