Norwescap’s mission is to help build a community that transforms poverty into opportunity. Their comprehensive array of services helps underserved people address immediate needs as well as build resiliency for long-term success and a future where they can thrive. Addressing health disparities and helping people to live healthier lives is an important part of their work, and the organization offers multiple health-related services through Norwescap Health Connections (formerly known as Norwescap CEED).

In an effort to engage the community in health-related activities, the first Annual Back To Health Fair, which is free and open to residents of Warren County and surrounding areas, will be held on April 11 from 2-5 p.m. at Mercy Hall in St. Philip & St. James Catholic Church, Phillipsburg.

“For someone to thrive, they need the opportunity to be healthy – but there are many barriers to quality healthcare for people with low income,” explained Jessica Dunston, Norwescap’s Participant Success Manager. “Norwescap strives to dispel inequalities and break down barriers by connecting people to the health services they need, and this helps to level the playing field.”

Health Connections, one of many Norwescap programs, started with funding through NJCEED (Cancer Education and Early Detection) supporting screenings and educational programs for breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancers. 

Through additional funding partnerships, the program now also provides education and connections for preventative care, obesity, and other common health needs. A current partnership with The CDC Foundation has supported further expansion of Norwescap Health Connections through an initiative to connect community members to vaccine information and access. The April Back To Health Fair will bring all of these efforts, along with multiple community partners, together under one roof.

According to Becki Kirkwood, Outreach and Education Coordinator for Norwescap Health Connections, “This will be an opportunity to learn about health and life resources to become the healthiest version of yourself.”

Attendees can meet with representatives from Norwescap’s myriad programs and services, as well as Zufall Clinic and several of its departments, a Shoprite Dietician, Warren County Social Services, Warren County Health Department, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center, Warren County Community College, Family Promise, Catholic Charities, Phillipsburg/Easton YMCA, Family Guidance Center of Warren County, and many more.

Free health screenings, vaccinations, lunch, raffles, giveaways, and kids’ activities are all on tap for an exciting, informative, and enjoyable afternoon. With over 30 vendors, there’s sure to be plenty of information not only on health and wellness, but other relevant topics too.

Urging the general public to take full advantage of the Health Fair’s offerings, Jessica Dunston stressed, “We are here for you and your family. It’s a collaboration. Health Connections is a way for the community to get informed of healthy options that are available to them and get connected with high quality health services.” Health Connections brings together under- or uninsured people with doctors from several specialties, including nutrition, smoking cessation, diabetes, and pediatrics.

Kirkwood summed up, “Overcome the pandemic blues by making your health your priority.”

Masks suggested for this event, but not required. For questions about the event, contact Becki Kirkwood at 908-387-9888 or email ceed@norwescap.org.

For general information about Norwescap and its programs, visit norwescap.org.

Originally established in 1965 to serve the low-income population of Hunterdon, Sussex and Warren counties, Norwescap has evolved into a comprehensive nonprofit organization providing services to over 30,000 individuals annually in Hunterdon, Warren, Morris, Somerset and Sussex counties. Its comprehensive array of services includes programs in education, employment, financial empowerment, health and nutrition, housing and community development, and volunteerism and civic engagement.