Papercrete blocks promote the health of Planet Earth as attendees of the Earth Day 2023 Health Fair learned in Palomas. (file photo)
This past Saturday, Border Partners hosted its 11th annual Earth Day Health Fair in Palomas. It was a resounding success–full of community camaraderie, nutritious and delicious eats, and increased consciousness around efforts to create a healthier and more sustainable Palomas.
Here you can see the impact reflected in the numbers:
- 80 packages of fresh vegetables from our community gardens distributed to community members;
- Alongside 80 more packages of mixed seeds for use in private gardens;
- 204 dogs vaccinated against rabies, an initiative led by the volunteer fire department;
- 210 healthy burritos rolled and given out by our staff;
- 150 well-earned blender bike smoothies provided as refreshment;
- 40 free haircuts given to people of all ages.
In addition, students from the local high schools held demonstrations with sustainable technologies, exhibiting biochar stoves and papercrete blocks to promote their use. Students stood by to answer questions to interested passersby. When not accompanying these project models, the group showed off their dance skills.
We also had a bouncy castle that was popular among the children. It was an active day for many kids in Palomas – we had several returning helpers fascinated with the inner workings of the blender bike.
Diversity of Health Fair Activities
A group of community craftswomen had their handiwork on display throughout the event, all of it made from recycled materials. Our health promoters conducted blood pressure checks. Meanwhile, our gardening team distributed fresh vegetables and answered questions next door. We also had a donation table that locals could peruse for new activewear or their next read.
We were so glad to have a well-attended event after all the hard work preparing for it behind the scenes by our staff. It was a beautiful day, and we already look forward to hosting the next health fair.