Health and Resource Fair to Offer Free Services

Apple Valley, CA – December 3, 2013: Free eye glasses, information on higher education, complimentary health screenings, employment training and more will be offered this Saturday at the James Woody Community Center from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The “Giving the Gift of Sight – Health and Resource Fair” is expected to fill a desperate need in the community for health services and self improvement resources that may be left unchecked due to financial and transportation concerns.

Lena Quinonez, recreation supervisor for the Town of Apple Valley explained the event evolved from a request from the Lions Club for a place to offer free eye exams. The request grew into an event supported by the Healthy High Desert Coalition that will feature 20 agencies offering screenings, trainings and information.

“The Healthy High Desert Coalition is creating a culture of health and wellness in our community,” said Quinonez. “What better way to do that than a free resource fair? With the recent changes to medical insurance, this will give community members hands-on information and assistance for pressing health issues they may be dealing with and can’t afford.”

Among the many health issues that will be addressed is the need for vision care. The Lions Club will be on site with physicians and 13,000 pairs of gently used prescription glasses. Exams and glasses will be given free to those who need them.

Other key services will include a clothing give away for children from infants to teenagers to the first 100 families, a free car seat clinic will be offered by certified technicians and free pap smears will be offered by physicians to patrons who pre-register by calling (760) 946-4240 to schedule an appointment.

Uninsured residents are encouraged to come by and get information available on obtaining coverage through the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.