GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – You’re invited to enjoy fun, accessible and impactful health activities this summer as Gainesville Fire Rescue (GFR) hosts its “Healthy Afternoons with Gainesville Fire Rescue” series. Led by Director of Community Health Initiatives Brandy Stone, MPH, CPH, these events bring essential health education, preventive services and community resources to neighborhoods across the city — free for all ages.

Why these events matter:

  • In December 2021, a community health needs survey highlighted issues like chronic disease, mental well-being and transportation challenges. Ongoing neighborhood health events help close those gaps by offering everything from healthy snacks to vitals checks.
  • GFR’s Community Resource Paramedicine (CRP) program — also overseen by Stone —has been shown to reduce emergency room visits by connecting residents to services like primary and specialty care and telehealth. Wider awareness of CRP through events boosts its impact.
  • Health education — particularly regarding chronic disease prevention, fire and life safety and mental health — reduces hospitalizations and supports long-term quality-of-life improvements.

Upcoming event spotlight:

Next installment: Wednesday, Aug. 6 from 3–5 p.m. at the Senior Recreation Center (5701 NW 34th Blvd.)

Expect brief presentations from community partners focused on topics related to senior wellness. This includes insurance, chronic disease management, physical activity and more.

“These events are rooted in data and designed around what our neighbors need — trust-building, prevention and making services accessible in places people already go,” said Director Stone. “The Gainesville City Commission has made community health outreach a priority, and their support ensures we can meet people where they are with services that truly make a difference.”

What’s available throughout the “Healthy Afternoon” events:

  • Health screenings (blood pressure, blood sugar)
  • Injury prevention (demos and child car seat checks)
  • Information booths (chronic care, telehealth, substance use prevention, mental wellness)
  • Interactive booths (hands-on activities such as bike helmet fitting and safety crafts)

Early feedback shows significant engagement and impact, as GFR and its partner agencies have connected with hundreds of neighbors. Dozens of children and seniors have received health education materials — paving the way for long-term improvements in self-care and community wellness.

City Manager Cynthia W. Curry added, “When health meets hope, entire neighborhoods thrive. Brandy and her team aren’t just educating — they’re building trust, breaking barriers and delivering services directly to people’s doorsteps.”

Event schedule:

  • 3-5 p.m. Wed., Aug. 6 at the Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd.
  • 10 a.m–noon, Wed., Aug. 27 at the Clarence R. Kelly Community Center, 1700 NE 8th Ave.

For more information and future dates, visit the city’s Community Health page or contact stonebl@gainesvillefl.gov. All are welcome — bring family, friends and neighbors!

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