Children's health fair at South Side center

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

A community group devoted to promoting “unity in the community” and striving to help curb violence in the city sponsored a health fair Saturday for area children.

Just Because is the name of the group, composed of citizens who have a singular mission: to promote good health, provide educational opportunities for children and provide fun and activities that build positive relationships, said E. Nikki Davis, a group member.

The health fair was at the Womack Center, 1172 Park Hill Drive, on the city’s South Side.

Children received comprehensive screenings and received information about asthma, dental health, diabetes and basic nutrition. There was an art competition in two age categories and storytelling.

City firefighters from the Indianola Avenue station brought a firetruck and gave the children fire-safety information.

Members of the police department did fingerprinting and formed bonds with the children to promote trust, Davis said.

Just Because also had a Fun Day last month at Crandall Park on the North Side, with nearly 300 children participating, accompanied by parents or other adults. There were games, food, bounce-around and prizes.

Davis said the children learned it was better to bond with one another instead of being involved in bullying.