Florida A&M University brought out more than 100 vendors for its Annual Health and Safety Day Fair on Tuesday, at the Hansel Tookes Sr. Recreation Center.
The Health and Safety Day Fair is free and open to the public. It provides educational information and health screenings for blood pressure, HIV, depression, scoliosis, oral health, etc.
Ida McQueen, a FAMU police officer, explained how their booth is geared toward bike safety and rape. McQueen offered advice to anyone who’s been a rape victim or knows someone currently being a victim.
“Nothing happens if you don’t report it” McQueen said. “Report the situation and crime scene so something can be done about it.”
Gretchen Baptiste, affordable health care specialist of the Baptiste Group, shared their goal of informing urban communities about the different options under the Affordable Care Act.
“The number of enrolled youth, especially African American youth, was very low,” Baptiste said. “We’re going out and doing community outreach to let them know that coverage is available, it’s affordable, and it’s important.”
Students filled the recreation center and checked out as many vendors as possible. Allen McMillan, a junior computer information technology major, gave his thoughts on the event.
“It’s something I was originally unaware of,” McMillan said. “I feel informed about a lot of health issues that relate to my friends and family.”
Shaundra Buggs, the regional coordinator of the Leon County’s health departments Breast & Cervical Cancer Program, expressed her satisfaction with the event and its coordinator Dr. Mildred Brickler.
“She takes the suggestions in consideration and she makes it a better event every time,” Buggs said. “I’ve enjoyed coming…and when she asks I definitely respond with a yes and show up.”
For more information contact Dr. Mildred Brickler at (850)-599-3487.