Black Clergy sponsoring health fair in Philly

A health fair focused on the needs and concerns of Philadelphia’s minority community is coming up at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

 

Members of the city’s black clergy say they’re trying to save more than souls.

“The reality is we are digging our graves with our teeth,” says the Rev. Terrence Griffith of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity.

It’s time for people to take charge of their health, and that’s exactly the aim of the Saturday health fair.

“We are launching an assault on the chronic and endemic diseases that are afflicting our communities,” Griffith said. Among those issues are diabetes and obesity.

City Councilman Curtis Jones says he knows the effects of an unhealthy lifestyle all too well.

“My brother lost his kidney and I donated a kidney to him,” said Jones. “It was clearly because of his unhealthy lifestyle choices.”

The goal of the event is to offer screenings and other educational materials to make sure people make better food choices and, in turn, enjoy a healthier life.

 

“Health Care Matters — Take Charge of Your Health” will take place Saturday, Oct. 27, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Convention Center, 525 Arch St., Philadelphia.