More than 500 residents came out to participate in the BMS Children's Fest Saturday in Brownsville, hosted by the Brownsville Multi-Service Family Health and Wellness Centers (BMS), with support from HELP USA Genesis Plaza Homes.
The festival, held at Genesis Dental Center, provided free health and dental screenings, as well as information on health insurance enrollment. Healthcare providers, mental health professionals, social service agencies, educational institutions, employment specialists and housing experts also were on hand to share their information and services.
There was information about the food box program at the hydroponic farm created in partnership with BMS, Maimonides Hospital, Teens for Food Justice, and the BCMS Middle School in Brownsville.
Photo: Photo: Courtesy BMS
"This event shows the importance of community partnerships in creating a holistic approach to health care where we work to address the many needs of our community," said BMS CEO Harvey Lawrence.
BMS also gave away more than 150 school bags of children's school supplies. In addition to delicious, free healthy food treats, there was a special KIDZone with games and activities such as Art as Healing, music and health education for children.
Agape Food Rescue gave away fresh fruit and vegetables and prepared more than 350 empanadas, while East New York Farms did cooking demos. HELP USA provided free food and prepared a delicious barbecue. Victory Music & Dance Marching Band and calypso singer Denise Belfon provided music and entertainment.
BMS also announce the upcoming launch of a new BMS at Bristol Dental Center, which will open October 2019 at 259 Bristol Street in Brownsville.
"We are proud to say that our new dental center at Bristol Street will soon provide more options for the community, offering state-of-the-art medical and dental care for the entire family. By doubling the number of dental [centers] from three to six, we will improve timely access to dental care, something greatly needed for this community."
