Public Health Month kicked off this morning at City Hall. On behalf of Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Director of Constituent Services Bill Baker presented a proclamation declaring Public Health Month in the City of Springfield.
During the last 24 years if it’s April, then it’s Public Health Month in Springfield. During the month of April and throughout the year – agencies, advocates and residents highlight though their actions, how increased health knowledge based on science helps to improve our healthy choices and actions.
Mayor Sarno states, “I deeply appreciate the leadership of Health & Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and all ‘the unsung heroes,’ who behind the scenes make our Springfield a better place to live, work and play – today we honor and highlight all those individuals and their caring and dedicated efforts.”
The Springfield Department of Health and Human Services has served as the local organizer of National Public Health Month events. Along with local partners, community based organizations, health care facilities and public health advocates are to expand on this year’s theme, "Creating the Healthiest City: For science. For action. For health."
Attendees at the kick-off event heard from the Martin Luther King Jr. Family Service Peer Health Advocates. The MLK Peer Health associates are a group of young people who work with other young people to make the best and healthiest choices.
"We are extremely proud the young folks participating in the MLK peer advocacy group. We are thankful for their hard work and good health dedications" said Commissioner Caulton-Harris.
Other events will illustrate the increasing role of information technologies in Public health practices, and how community based initiatives help us cope with chronic disease and the risk factors that arise from social; determinants of health such as obesity, tobacco and drug use, stress and depression.
A full schedule of events is available at www.springfield-ma.gov/hhs/
