Gerald Anthony Guidry
July 28, 2009
Florett "Flo" Johnson
July 30, 2009
With the start of school around the corner, the Children’s Coalition for the Bayou Region is sponsoring its annual Safe and Healthy Kids Day where parents can get their children immunized for free.
The Office of Public Health will administer the immunizations to children. Parents or legal guardians need only the child’s immunization records.
The event is schedule for Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Southland Mall.
It also features many area agencies providing information on issues pertaining to children’s health and the safety of children. Some free services include fingerprinting and hearing, dental and vision screening.
“The organizations participating in this great event will be educating adults and children on how to create a safer and healthier environment within their home and communities, which helps to promote the coalition’s mission: creating a community that nurtures the body, mind and spirit of children.” said Freddia Ruffin-Roberson, program director with the coalition.
“Over the years, families have thanked the coalition for recognizing the needs of the community,” she said.
The Children’s Coalition holds a monthly meeting with other Tri-parish organizations that provide services to children. The meetings help to maximize the care that can be offered in the area.
“Safe and Healthy Kids Day gives agencies and businesses an opportunity to get exposure in the community, a chance for people to come out and see what resources are available to them,” Ruffin-Roberson said.
Children in attendance will receive free supplies, along with other giveaways. KBZE 105.9FM will broadcast the event live. Community groups, churches and other area entertainers will also provide entertainment.
The Children’s Coalition also provides other resources, such as information on health and safety issues, school drug and alcohol prevention programs, and child abuse.
For more information on how to participate or become a member of the coalition, call (985) 872-1880.
Safe and Healthy Kids Day is set for Saturday, Aug. 1, at Southland Mall. The annual event, sponosored by the Children’s Coalition for the Bayou Region, will offer youngsters headed back to school immunizations, as well as provide information on various services available locally. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. * Photo by HOWARD J. CASTAY JR.
