Free Health Services in Newtown
Medical professionals are starting 2025 with a strong emphasis on community health during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend in Sarasota’s historically Black neighborhood of Newtown. Residents will have a chance to access free health services, including medical screenings, vaccinations, and mental health resources, through a series of events aimed at addressing health disparities and promoting wellness in underserved communities.
Vaccination Wellness Pop-Up Event
The Gulf Coast Medical Society, in partnership with several organizations including the Cobb Institute and Multicultural Health Institute, will host the Vaccination Wellness Pop-Up on Saturday, Jan. 18, at Light of the World, located at 3809 Chapel Drive, Sarasota. This venue played a crucial role in combating vaccine inequities during the pandemic by serving as Newtown’s first COVID-19 vaccine clinic.
Activities Planned
The event starts at 10 a.m. and will provide free vaccinations for influenza, RSV, and COVID-19, followed by a town hall panel discussion focused on health issues at noon.
Community Advocacy
Dr. Washington Hill, an OB/GYN and community health advocate, expressed that this initiative aims to empower Newtown residents to take charge of their health. He emphasized the importance of accessing necessary screenings, noting the presence of a mammogram bus and prostate screening availability at the event.
Educating Community Members
Dr. Randall Morgan, a physician involved in the vaccinations, highlighted the significance of educating attendees about the life-saving benefits of vaccines. He noted, ‘Our consumers need to know that although there is much discussion about the risk and worthlessness of receiving vaccines— vaccines save lives.’
The Importance of Vaccinations During Pregnancy
Dr. Hill reassured that vaccines are safe for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women. He stated, ‘Vaccinations during pregnancy are completely safe… data shows there is no harm to them or their fetus and that receiving the vaccines protects their newborn.’
Upcoming Community Screenings & Health Fair
The activities will continue on Monday, Jan. 20, with the Community Screenings & Health Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, 2523 Cocoanut Ave., Sarasota. This event will feature free wellness screenings conducted by certified local physicians, educational resources, and a farmers market.
Pre-Registration Encouraged
While walk-up screenings and mammograms will be available, attendees are encouraged to pre-register online for mammograms at 3D Mobile Mammography. For more details, visit SMH Health Fair.
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