YMCA, health department to host free event for kids
In celebration of National Public Health Week, the Cleveland County Health Department is partnering with the Dover YMCA to host Healthy Kids Day at the Cleveland County Health Department located at 200 S. Post Road, Shelby, on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 1 to 5 p.m.
Healthy Kids Day is the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids and families. For over 30 years, YMCAs and their communities have hosted free community events aimed to inspire kids and families to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months and beyond. Similarly, for over 25 years, the American Public Health Association has worked to bring together communities across the United States to observe National Public Health Week in April as a time to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving our nation's health.
“The goals of the YMCA and Healthy Kids Day closely align with the goals of the health department and National Public Health Week,” said DeShay Oliver, deputy health director for the Cleveland County Health Department. “We can accomplish more when we work together and combine our resources. It is really all about coming together to improve the health and wellbeing of our community by providing an opportunity for families to play and learn together.”
This year’s Healthy Kids Day will have a large lineup of activities including, but not limited to, inflatables, minigolf, face painting, balloon art, food trucks, giveaways and educational resources.
Also, in an effort to increase access to childhood vaccinations, especially for those who have a rising kindergartener, seventh grader or twelfth grader who need school-required immunizations, the health department will be opening up their immunization clinic during the event. Nurses will be available to check the N.C. Immunization Registry to see if children are in need of any vaccines. Those needing a vaccine may receive one that day if interested – no appointment is necessary. Incentives will be available for any children receiving a vaccine during the event.
“Our goal is to help families get a head start on required vaccines for the upcoming school year,” said Heather Voyles, school health supervisor for the Cleveland County Health Department. “Waiting until the start of school in the fall creates barriers to scheduling availability in our community’s clinics. We would like to encourage parents to take advantage of this opportunity now so they aren’t faced with challenges with getting their children’s vaccines later.”
Healthy Kids Day is free and open to the public.
This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: YMCA, health department to host free event for kids
