Hanford's family resource center will host a health fair this week, complete with information, wellness screenings and entertainment.

Tuesday night's "Healthy Mind Body and Soul" event at the Hanford Civic Auditorium will be for the entire family, said Mike Mendoza, head of the family resource center. Though directly targeted for the families of Hanford Elementary School District, the health fair is free and open to the public.

"The only thing it costs you is your time," Mendoza said. "If we can be the vehicle by which a seed is planted for someone, we would be happy with that."

The health fair will feature a variety of exhibits, ranging from blood pressure and body mass index screenings to representatives from health insurance companies. A chef will also prepare some tasty healthy entrees for attendees to sample. The intent is to connect people with the health services and agencies they require.

There will be something for everyone at the fair, Mendoza says.

"Mainstream Joe Citizen will find something that sparks their interest and curiosity," Mendoza said.

The resource center has hosted similar health-related events previously, but never of this magnitude, Mendoza says. The fair will be funded through an endowment grant from the state.

Resource center staff has contracted with a registered dietitian, Melaine Brooks, in preparation for the event. Brooks, who specializes in obesity and diabetes, is interested in the "alarming trends" in Kings County, especially in regards to obesity and poverty. She wants to provide "sound and scientifically, making sure parents and students have access to good health information.

"You can lead a healthier life now," Brooks said. "And by doing that as a parent you can be an example for the child so they can have a healthier life now."

The health fair will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The reporter can be reached at 582-0471, ext. 3047

(Dec. 3, 2007)