March 12, 2024

HOUSTON - The Houston Health Department and Ibn Sina Foundation will host a series of community health improvement fairs across the city throughout 2024 to provide free or low-cost vaccinations, health screenings and education.

The next fair is set for Saturday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kashmere Multi-Service Center, 4802 Lockwood Drive.

Participants will receive COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, free diabetes and blood pressure screenings, oral health and hygiene assessments, mental health training and referrals for cancer screenings and mammograms.

They may also enroll on-site for medical benefits, including Harris Health (Gold Card), SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) benefits. Participants need to show either an identification card or passport, social security cards, utility bill or receipt, proof of income and a current bank statement to determine program eligibility.

The department’s Community Assistance and Transition Care of Houston (CATCH) initiative will organize 12 health fairs throughout the year.

Each health fair will address the primary health concerns of the neighborhoods where they are organized and ensure health professionals focus on each participant’s concerns and needs.

"Building healthy lifestyle habits is essential to reducing the risk of developing cancer or Type 2 diabetes, both of which have a high incidence in these focus communities,” said Juan Alvarado, staff analyst with the department’s Harris County Area Agency on Aging. “Our aim is to lower the incidence of cancer and diabetes in our communities and empower residents to take control of their health.”

Participants can register for the Kashmere Multi-Service Center fair online by filling out a form or at the event.

For more information, call 832-393-4301 or email Jennifer Garza at jennifer.garza3@houstontx.gov or Juan Alvarado at juan.alvarado@houstontx.gov.