The importance of living healthy lives is a top priority for the leaders of Gainesville Church of God by Faith.
To further their commitment to educating the congregation and community about healthy living, the church will host its 2nd annual Family Fun and Health Fair from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 22 at the church at 735 NE 15th St.
“We’re always excited to host our health fair,” said Elder Dr. Erta Livingston Jr. “We will be providing our community with health care information relating to diabetes, stroke and pre-existing diseases.”
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Livingston referenced III John 1:2 when it came to health, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers”.
“We talk about being prosperous spiritually but we have to make sure we are healthy and prosperous physically,” Livingston said.
Livingston works as a director of patient services at UF Health in Jacksonville and his wife, Debbra Livingston, is a nurse practitioner at UF Health in Gainesville.
“That is why we embrace this health fair so much,” Livingston said. “When they are aware of the diseases, we want to make sure they have an opportunity to do something about it.”
Diane Latson Harden, outreach coordinator for the event, said she is looking forward to members of the community taking advantage of the free resources to help them take better care of themselves.
Health screenings for blood pressure, a stroke-mobile, Gainesville Fire Rescue, Alachua County Sheriff Office’s drug bust truck, vendors sharing local resources, singing, praise dances and more will be featured at the event, Harden said.
“Our goal is to reach all of the people in the community and give back and create a space for them to have fun and relax,” Harden said. “It’s all about togetherness.”
The purpose of the health fair is to make the information more known when it comes to people learning about exercising, eating right and consuming enough water, Harden said.
“It’s very important as a community to build on each other,” Harden said. “It’s important for African Americans to learn more about having good health because some of us don’t know how to take care of ourselves. During the health fair, we will have people to tell us what to do.”
Finding someone to hold you accountable on your health journey is important, Harden said.
“Partner up and build together and walk together on a track,” Harden said. “We want them to build on their health and learn how to do that physically and mentally. Have someone to reach out to you on a day-to-day basis.”