For the first time this year, the annual event will be held in conjunction with the Be Aware Wellness Fair, sponsored by the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce, Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville Food Center and the Mia Ware Foundation.
While kids enjoy Ferris wheel rides and other fun activities, parents can browse opportunities for youth summer activities and camps offered by local organizations. The Prairieland United Way Food Drive and Dot Foods will hold a mass food distribution. The Salvation Army Food Canteen will also be on-site, in collaboration with Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen, as well as the Central Illinois Food Bank Mobile Kitchen Cart with JMH Dietitian Karen Sibert.
Healthy Jacksonville, a program of Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, uses a community health model to increase access to healthcare for vulnerable and at-risk individuals.
“We are excited to once again partner with other organizations in the community for Summerfest and the Be Aware Wellness Fair,” said Erika Procarione, JMH community health worker. “We hope many local families will come out to Community Park to celebrate the summer with us and learn about resources available to help them live healthier lives.”