Health and safety fiesta returns next month

The annual Community Health & Safety Fiesta returns for a fourth year on Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Spanaway Lutheran Church (16001 A Street S.).

“It’s doing serious things in an exciting way,” said Jeris Ockfen, chair of the planning committee for the event.

Perhaps most notably, those who bring their insurance card can get a free flu shot from Spanaway Pharmacy (more than 60 people took advantage last year), with flu season just around the corner.

“We’re hoping to have a good turnout,” Ockfen said.

But that’s far from the only freebie offered to those who attend.

Around 50 to 75 backpacks filled with school supplies will be handed out to elementary and middle schoolers who take part in activities, while free bike helmets will also be offered.

The bike helmets aren’t just for children either.

“The purpose is to get bike helmets where needed, and encourage all of us to wear them,” she said. “That’s a safety issue. It’s for adults as well.”

Attendees are welcome to come hungry, with free hot dogs, fruit, and water also available.

Meanwhile, hourly prize drawings will also take place for items from local businesses and restaurants, though make note, you must be present to win and claim a prize.

People can also choose to give blood on site, at the Cascade Regional Blood Services blood mobile. That’s something approximately a dozen people did last year.

Ockfen is also hoping that nursing students from Pacific Lutheran University will be on hand to conduct blood pressure checks (among other services), and answer health questions, with Ockfen also mentioning dental and vision services, and potentially a hearing check booth as well.

She also thanked Molina Healthcare (and specifically Carrie Ching) for help organizing the event, while other sponsors include LeMay, and Bethel Schools.

“This annual event has provided our neighbors with activities and with important information about health and safety,” she said. “And it’s a lot of fun getting together with neighbors in the neighborhood.”

For more information on the event, email jerisrae@comcast.net.