Essentia Health, Youth Emergency Shelter & Supports to host Indigenous and Community Health Fair

The free event runs from noon to 5 p.m. on Oct. 21 in Park Rapids
 
Essentia Health and Youth Emergency Shelter & Supports (YESS) are proud to host an Indigenous and Community Health Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Armory Arts and Events Center in Park Rapids.
 
Dedicated to enhancing health and wellness within our community, the fair will run from noon to 5 p.m. People of all ages are invited to attend and learn about the local Indigenous culture as well as resources to promote overall health and wellness.
 
“YESS’ goal, along with that of Essentia, is to bring community resources to one localized place, reducing barriers to access for critical services in our community,” said Kori Nelson, YESS founder and executive director. “This event will enable the young and the elderly to learn about their friends and neighbors, as well as the resources they can utilize in times of need, or if they know someone who may benefit from them. All are welcome, and we look forward to seeing you!”
Attendees will be able to interact with vendors offering information about a variety of local services and resources, including for mental health, voting, college financial aid and application, local social services, pregnancy, substance use disorder treatment and recovery, suicide prevention, Indian Education, sports health (physical therapy and nutrition), dermatology and breast health. Essentia also will offer free blood pressure screenings along with an opportunity to schedule mammograms.
“Essentia Health’s mission is to make a healthy difference in people’s lives, and we are always looking to collaborate with trusted community partners like YESS to advance that mission,” said Tess Rice, operations director for Essentia. “This event is the perfect opportunity to do that, while bringing together so many important resources for our friends, family and neighbors.”
Indigenous traditions like dancing, drumming, singing and the craft of beading will be on display
There is no cost to attend the fair, which will feature prize giveaways and free food.
 
ABOUT YOUTH EMERGENCY SHELTER & SUPPORTS
 
At YESS, we are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for youth experiencing homelessness or in crisis who need shelter. Our team is committed to helping young people in northern Minnesota communities get back on their feet by offering emergency shelter, counseling, and other necessary support. We believe every young person deserves a chance to thrive and are here to help ensure that happens.
 
ABOUT ESSENTIA HEALTH
 
Essentia Health’s mission is to make a healthy difference in people’s lives. An integrated nonprofit health system, Essentia relentlessly pursues that mission at our 14 hospitals, 80 clinics, 30 retail pharmacies, six long-term care facilities, three assisted living facilities, two independent living facilities, seven ambulance services, and one research institute. Essentia has about 15,500 employees, including 2,350 physicians and advanced practitioners who provide expert, compassionate care. We’re privileged to serve patients in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin.