Health fair returns to Hempfield

After being canceled last year because of the covid-19 pandemic, Hempfield’s health and wellness fair is set to return this weekend.

The Healthy, Happy Hempfield — Community Health & Wellness Fair is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the township athletic complex, 220 Forbes Trail Road. The free event focuses on the township’s commitment to providing impactful community enrichment opportunities, said Aaron Siko, director of parks and recreation.

“This will be our second health, wellness and safety fair that we hope to continue annually,” Siko said. “It’s a great way to bring community resources together in one place.”

The first health and wellness fair was held in 2020. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to meet with various organizations from across the county and learn about their services. The township tried to hold the event last year, but it ultimately was canceled as covid cases surged.

This year, almost 30 organizations are scheduled to attend, including Allegheny Health Network, UPMC and Excela Health. Other organizations cover a range of topics, including youth sports, mental health and veteran, child and senior services. Information related to food banks and recycling also will be available.

Siko noted participation during the 2020 event encouraged the township to continue with the fair this year.

“The 2020 event had a tremendous response, which is what encouraged us to continue to try to offer this event to the community again in 2021,” Siko said. “We are happy to be able to bring the event back this year and look forward to the event growing each year to come.”