• Through the ministry of the Mobile Health Fair (MHF), people who do not have access to, or resources for, medical care receive screenings, education and referrals as needed.
• The impact on individuals, families and communities is immeasurable and unquestionable.
• Health Fairs serve as a vehicle for community improvement.
• Health fairs are free to participants.
• Local presbyteries, churches and mission groups sponsor health fairs in partnership with the Synod of the Covenant.

Local church leaders and representatives of health and social service agencies unite to bring the Health Fair Ministry to the people.

“U.S. faces surge in extreme poverty—Nearly 16 million Americans affected” was the headline for February 25, 2007. The article went on to explain that the percentage of poor Americans has reached a 32-year high. Millions of working Americans are closer to the poverty line than ever before. These numbers are not only in large cities but are spreading rapidly to urban and rural areas.

The first “luxury” to disappear is often health care. Families are no longer able to pay premiums or co-pays and often companies are no longer offering health care as a benefit.

This situation makes the Mobile Health Fair Ministry even more in demand during the summer months and now, even into the fall and spring. Mobile Health Fairs can excite a group or congregation of people into becoming involved in health care in their own community. More importantly, a health fair reaches out to those in a community who feel forgotten, lost and abused by society.

The Mobile Health Fair Ministry travels with six people who are trained in specific medical screenings such as glucose, vision, hearing, pulmonary function, blood pressure, basic skin screen, and basic dental. The van is stocked with over 26 educational displays, pamphlets and hands-on materials to help people become their own best health advocate. Participants have an exit interview where they are seen by a physician or nurse and referred, if necessary, to a local free or low cost clinic.

While this ministry is not an answer to a nationwide healthcare problem, it often connects local people in need with local agencies that are better able to direct participants to services that can help with their medical and other social needs at the time.

In John 10:10 Jesus says, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Jesus tells us to reach out to those in need, that he will work through us to help all people. This is a mission that rewards everyone involved, regardless of how you are involved!

Please check the Mobile Health Fair calendar to see when the van with the big rainbow will be in your neighborhood.