Health expo will include workshops on scams, financial literacy

TEXARKANA, Texas — Texarkana is bringing changes to its annual health event.

The Wellness Remix: Total Health & Wellness Expo, a free public event, will be April 30 at Texarkana Convention Center, Cowhorn Creek Road.

“There are so many different facets to health,” said Vashil Fernandez, director of planning, community development and health for the city.

The expo will include local health care businesses. Attendees will be able to get free blood pressure checks and have the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of interactive workshops.

“In the past, it has been more of a health fair that our city and health department put together, but this year with our partnership with TAMUT (Texas A&M University-texarkana) and other partners, we can expand it to total wellness,” Fernandez said.

Vendors will provide information on mental health, financial literacy, nutrition and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

The expo historically has drawn a few hundred attendees. With the expansion, Fernandez expects a larger turnout.

“Last year the health fair ended around 2 p.m., and this year it is extended until 6 p.m., so this gives people more time to come out,” Fernandez said. “Parents picking up their kids from school can come by, and this is a chance to reach people of different age demographic.”

Texarkana Texas Police Department will teach a workshop on fraud protection and how to avoid becoming a victim of scams.

“So many people get caught up in scams and fraud, so it is important to educate people in different categories of fraud and eliminate some of those things,” Fernandez said. “Part of total health and wellness is being able to use the information to help you be self-sustainable.”

The Total Health & Wellness Expo will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The workshop schedule includes —

• 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. — Financial Literacy, Jay Davis of TAMUT’S Center for Financial Literacy & Investment

• 11:15 a.m. to noon — Nutrition, Bren Gonzalez of B. Healthy by Bren

• 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. — Medicare Benefits, Angela Glass of Area Agency on Aging

• 3:15 p.m. to 4 p.m. — Fraud Protection, the Police Department

• 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. — FAFSA Breakdown, TAMUT

Call Jay Davis at 903-223-3147 for vendor information.