Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. - "Your doorway to Choice, Hope and Recovery"

Meridian Hosts 1st Annual Health & Prevention Youth Fair

Starke, FL - July 7, 2009 - On Saturday, July 18, 2009 from 10:00am to 3:00pm, Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., at 945 North Grand St., Starke, FL, will host its 1st Annual Health & Prevention Youth Fair. The event’s goal is to increase community awareness of prevention and local health services for the citizens of Bradford County. This outdoor event is free and open to the public.

The event will include fun and education for the entire family including: a moonwalk bounce house, a tractor train ride, free bicycle helmets, child car seats program, Smokey the Bear, pre-registration for physicals/Pop Warner physicals, finger printing by local law enforcement, free dental screens, free Sickle Cell screenings, free blood pressure screenings, weapon's demonstration done by Victims Advocates, hourly drawing for prizes, and live entertainment provided by North Florida Music and Sound featuring John McMillan who's music premiered on A&E’s "The Cleaner".

Free food will also be available including: hotdogs, pizza, sushi, chips, drinks, and popcorn.

The safety net in Florida is near collapse and in dire need of stimulus, said Maggie Labarta, President/CEO of Meridian Behavioral Healthcare. The national healthcare reform agenda must include mental health and addiction services, which are vital to keeping us strong, safe and productive.

“We are especially interested in services that are available for youth of all ages and families,” said Florrie Mingo, Outreach Case Manager and event coordinator Exhibitors will be encouraged to have interactive games and exhibits targeted to youth of all ages. Area education, healthcare services, health screening and prevention exhibitors, agencies and organizations interested in participation should RSVP to Florrie Mingo at or 904-964-8382 ext. 8803. Vendors that wish to participate must respond by July 13, 2009.

For additional vendor or event information contact Florrie Mingo at 904-964-8382 ext. 8803 or 352-256-6291

Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit, charitable organization providing and North Central Florida’s leading safety-net provider for people who experience mental illnesses, addictions and related social challenges.