LEMON GROVE, Calif. (Nov. 4, 2019) – The Grossmont Healthcare District’s annual Kids Care Fest recently provided 100 free influenza shots at Kids Care Fest ahead of a deadly 2019 flu season, already claiming the life of at least one Californian.
According to a recent report by the The Wall Street Journal, doctors are urging Americans to get flu shots, especially the very young and elderly, amid fears over evidence of a particularly deadly
flu strain this season, with one expert saying, “It does make me a little bit more nervous.”
In partnering with area medical providers, Grossmont Healthcare District recently hosted the October Kids Care Fest, providing nearly 100 free flu shots, along with more than 200 dental screenings and about 100 visions screenings.
Upcoming free flu clinics with Champions for Health include: November 13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Volunteers in Medicine, 1475 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon; November 14, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Lemon Grove Farmers Market, VFW Parking Lot, 2885 Lemon Grove Ave., Lemon Grove; and, November 21, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at El Cajon Valley High School, 1035 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon.
Residents are encouraged to contact Champions for Health about more upcoming free flu clinics at Andrew.Gonzalez@ChampionsFH.org.
“Our efforts include increasing the influenza vaccination rate for those without a medical home,” said Andrew Gonzalez, Champions for Health’s Community Wellness and Partnership Manager. “By improving access to these vital healthcare services, our community residents can address their healthcare issues in a more timely manner, before the issue becomes an emergency.”
In addition to vital flu shots and other health services, Kids Care Fest offered people of all ages health insurance enrollment assistance, food assistance program information, and nutrition education as well as rock climbing, an inflatable obstacle course, and meet-and-greets with police and fire officials.
“We loved seeing all the families getting out and spending some fun fall time together today,” said Barry Jantz, CEO of Grossmont Healthcare District. “It allowed folks to check off some of those pressing health needs all in one place, which is especially important as we head into flu season.
“Our outreach has expanded to include food donations from the San Diego Food Bank, behavioral health counseling resources, and breast and cervical screening services,” Jantz continued. “Our organization aims to work with our partners to support the health of body and mind.”
Grossmont Healthcare District proudly partnered on Kids Care Fest with Sharp Grossmont Hospital, City of Lemon Grove, and Lemon Grove School District. Along with Champions for Health, other medical partners included Borrego Community Health Foundation, Mountain Health & Community Services, University of California at San Diego EyeMobile for Children, La Maestra Community Health Centers, Family Health Centers of San Diego, Neighborhood Healthcare, and the County of San Diego Health & Human Services Agency.
About Grossmont Healthcare District
The Grossmont Healthcare District is a public agency that supports health-related community programs and services in East County. The District formed in 1952 to build and operate Grossmont Hospital. It serves as landlord of Sharp Grossmont Hospital and owns the property and buildings on behalf of East County taxpayers. The district is governed by a five-member board of directors who represent more than 500,000 people residing within 750 square miles.
CONTACT:
Erica Salcuni
Grossmont Healthcare District
esalcuni@grossmonthealthcare.org
Phone: (619) 825-5017
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