The Annual Diversity Health Fair is an important event because it connects newcomers to health services and providers in an informal community setting.
“A newcomer may be facing health related issues which they are not aware of; things like hearing loss, diabetes, risk of stroke or heart attack,” says ACS Executive Director Rod Santiago.
A newcomer may be facing health related issues which they are not aware of; things like hearing loss, diabetes, risk of stroke or heart attack
Face-to-Face Interaction Makes All the Difference
Diversity Health Fair – February 20th @ Apollo Athletic Club
The annual event opens up a wide range of health services for newcomers. Services they might not ever feel comfortable seeking out on their own.
“It’s a really great way of bringing people together,” says Paula Mannington, Manager of English Language Services at ACS. “Public community events, free of charge, where they can bring their friends and family to, are a key way for newcomers to learn about things the community has to offer. It’s a much different experience than looking at a brochure, trying to figure out what it means or by looking at online resources. For newcomers, having this face to face learning opportunity has a definite impact and one that reaches far beyond just the individual being served.”
Now in its sixth year, the primary goal of the event is to educate and provide critical, often times, lifesaving resources. Many of the attendees commented that it was a very informative and exhibitors were pleased with the smaller but more interactive setting.
Rimple Mohindra, Diversity Health Fair Coordinator was pleased to have new exhibitors offer their expertise. “Having groups like Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Parkinson’s Society, the Mammography Screening Program, Fraser Health Diversity Services and the Redi Program from the hospital, as well as Kids Matter – all of these are important for our newcomers to learn about. When they have knowledge, they can have a healthier life.”
“Even though ACS experienced some significant funding cuts and changes to many of the Immigrant Services programs, I am so grateful we were still able to make this happen,” says Santiago. “Hopefully, looking forward, we can plan more strategically in advance and look for new and innovative funding opportunities so that the event can go back to its roots of being a large community event which attracted hundreds of attendees. Thanks to Rimple and her team and all the volunteers who ensured another successful Diversity Health Fair!”
