The Hays County Local Health Department (HCLHD) wants residents to take charge of their own health. The Fall Community Health Fair, scheduled for October 22, is one of several planned events and opportunities to help build a stronger community through good health. 
Matthew Gonzales, the county’s health equity and community engagement program manager, said everyone has the power to take better care of themselves.
“Our overall campaign at the health department is: Your health in your hands. Tu salud en tus manos,” he said. “How we eat, how we exercise, and how we deal with stress are all related to our health.”
Gonzales said good health also includes getting regular check-ups, preventative health screenings and routine tests.
The Fall Health Fair takes place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center in Kyle. Brittany Myers with the HCLHD said the fair features a diabetes screening, blood pressure checks, the opportunity to sign up for future cancer screenings, nutrition and fitness information, STD testing, and free flu and COVID vaccines. She said people of all ages are encouraged to attend.
“We will also have a children’s Halloween costume contest along with games and face painting,” Myers said. “The little ones will enjoy a bounce house and Trick or Treating at each vendor table.”
She added that vendors include the Pink Bus (Pink Heels), Humana, St David’s, CommuniCare, Community Action, the Lions Club and more.
Gonzales said the HCLHD provides a variety of services and information to the community all year long.
“Our primary mission is to improve the quality of life for Hays County citizens and empower them to take charge of their health,” he said. “Much of our emphasis is on underinsured, noninsured and underrepresented groups in Hays County.”
The Hays County Community Health Fair takes place October 22 at 979 Kohlers Crossing in Kyle. For more information about the Fall Health Fair, visit https://hayscountytx.com/fall-community-health-fair/.
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