Today the residents of the area living in the Hunter Hills Apartment complex in Flemington, NJ enjoyed a very helpful and informative "Latino Health Fair". It was put together (or organized) by a local church organization with the cooperation and permission of the Hunter Hills complex owners. It couldn't of been a better day for such an event with sun and a mild breeze that all enjoyed including the many kids present. I was really surprise to see the event since no announcement I can recall was made at least that I could remember. I'm sure they announced it somewhere (I hope) but still a pleasant surprise all the same. The hispanic or Latino community in this area have been marginalized for some time now and it's refreshing to see this type of event give helpful information pertinent to this community. All were welcomed to attend and no one was turned away because many Latino issues addressed there are also everyone else's concern, after all we are all human beings and God's children, aren't we?
There were several organizations represented at the event like the Hunterdon's Regional Cancer Center, the local YMCA, the Hunterdon Prevention Resources and others. I spoke to a few of the representatives of these groups or organizations and got a clear idea of what they are trying to do (I think?), some good on face value anyway. The YMCA representative (Gabriela) spoke to me about the importance of exercise and the many other services the local YMCA has to offer like financial assistance programs. She also spoke about the dangers in pedestrian accidents and the new laws to enforce drivers to STOP, not just for people crossing roads but for those on bicycles too. For more on the local YMCA programs, call at 908-782-1044 ext. 638 or visit them at 144 West Woodschurch Road, Flemington. You can also email them at gbonnavent@comcast.net or vista their web site at www.hcymca.or
I also spoke to a representative of Hunterdon's Prevention Resources (Flor?) pointing out the importance of good strong family values and the many dangers of prescribed medications. Many parents and or seniors today have many dangerous unused medications that are presently available to our children and are being taken by them and putting their lives in danger. This is NOT just a Latino issue people but effects all of us today. You as a parent may not be even aware of this problem or that exists within your home until it's too late. For information about them, call at 908-782-3909 or at web site hunterdonprevention.com.
I then I spoke with a young man who represented Highlands Health Van that comes by Church Street in Flemington every Tuesday. The van was supposed to have shown up at the event but some issues prevented that from happening. This van or mobile clinic provides some basic key type health care and at a very affordable cost of just $20 per visit as compared to what it would cost you a visit and your local ER or even doctors office even with insurance coverage. You can find out more about their services by going to zufallhealth.org or calling them at 908-968-0898. We need more events like this in area, state and nationally.
