Wellness event set for African-American residents

Published 5:35 pm Tuesday, March 7, 2023

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Wellness Expo brings wellness resource information to Suffolk communities this month on the numerous health issues that disproportionately affect African American communities. 

The Suffolk Chapter of The Links is planning its Black Health Expo for a-4 p.m., Saturday, March 18, at the East Suffolk Recreation Center, 138 6th St. 

The primary impetus behind this effort is for Links chapters to join in a common goal of bringing forth a new national initiative that is collaborative in nature and holistic in its focus on improving the wellness of people of color throughout our service areas, according to a news release. 

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It is also in keeping with the objective of the organization’s National President Link Ethel Isaacs Williams to “Elevate Our Impactful Service.” 

A variety of health care and social service agencies are scheduled to atttend. Topics will cover the entire family — from infant to seniors — and include blood pressure and glucose screenings  (Southeastern Virginia Health Systems); dental screenings (Hampton Roads Community Health Center); substance abuse and mental health information (Western Tidewater Community Services Board); the Alzheimer’s Association; Hampton University  COVID-19 program; Suffolk Fire and Rescue Department’s “Touch a Truck Program” for children; Suffolk Links’ Donate Life Program; vision and hearing screening by the Lions Club; information from the National Kidney foundation and more. 

A fitness instructor is going to be available to provide some exercise tips for the children. Various giveaways are planned during the day, as well as a balloonist for the children and ice cream. Healthy snacks also are being provided during the day. 

For more information, visit www.linksinc.org.