Black Clergy of Philadelphia & Vicinity to host Health and Resource Fair with Gateway Health Nov. 19

November 18, 2016 Category: Local Posted by: Philadelphia Sun Staff

The Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, in conjunction with Gateway Health, will host its “Your Health Matters Health and Resource Fair,” Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Zion Baptist Church, 3600 North Broad Street. The Fair will take place from 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM and will feature a series of free health screenings, free flu shots (bring insurance card with you), resources from groups such as PGW, PECO Energy, and various Temple health programs, as well as information from the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, the Affordable Housing Center, BenePhilly and other non-profit organizations. A pharmacist will be on hand to discuss medications and related questions. There will be refreshments, giveaways, and drawings for free items.

Reverend Jay Broadnax, President of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity stated, “Not a year goes by that the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity doesn’t hold at least one health fair and through our churches, we regularly highlight the importance of health. We understand that we have to stay on top of the message: Take care of your health. See your primary care doctor at least once a year. Get your eyes checked, see a dentist, make sure you are taking care of your health.” Rev. Robert Collier, Black Clergy’s Health Committee Coordinator stated that, “We are very enthusiastic about holding the fair at Zion Baptist Church. It is open to everyone and we are looking to help uplift that community, as well as welcome folks from across the city in receiving critical health and other resource information.”

On November 19th, the Black Clergy organization will also give away at least 100 turkeys to those attending the Health and Resource Fair. Between registration and the time of the turkey distribution, guests will be invited to visit the exhibit hall and take advantage of available health screenings and informational resources.

Marvetta Coleman, Senior Community Engagement & Growth Specialist for Gateway Health stated, “Gateway Health is pleased to partner with the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity on this health and resource fair. We know that increasing awareness, sharing information, and helping to make resources accessible are vital in both the prevention of illness and increasing self-care. This fair is one way to help connect the community to those resources.”

Rev. Jay Broadnax is the current President of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia & Vicinity. He is the pastor at the Mount Pisgah A.M.E. Church in West Philadelphia. Organized in 1981, the group has a membership of over 50 pastors and other Clergy members.