Healthy Beginnings Fair to connect Columbus families with health resources
Mississippi University for Women’s public health programs, part of the Department of Health and Kinesiology, will host the Healthy Beginnings Fair Thursday, Aug. 6, from 4-6 p.m. in the Pohl Gymnasium lobby. The community event will bring together families, health professionals and organizations to share resources that promote healthy beginnings for mothers, children and expectant families.
“Maternal and child health has long been a challenge in Mississippi, and we know it remains a pressing public health issue for communities across our state,” said Dr. Irene Pintado, chair of the Department of Health and Kinesiology. “This fair is an important first step in bringing our expertise into the community. We have knowledge and experience in maternal and child health, advocacy, policy, needs assessment, program planning and evaluation, all of which can help support healthier families and communities.”
The event is free and open to the community, and no registration is required. It will feature 10 to 12 providers from the Columbus area offering services and resources related to maternal and child health.
Resources will include information on prenatal and postpartum care, activities for children, tips for staying active and healthy during and after pregnancy, giveaways, free health information and more.
“Last year, the State Health Officer declared Mississippi’s infant mortality rate a public health emergency,” Pintado said. “We want to raise awareness of the services and resources available to families here in the Golden Triangle.”
For more information, please Pintado at itpintado@muw.edu.