See It: The Community being helped

The South County Health Department in Alexandria, VA partners with Inova Health Systems, Fairfax County Government, Virginia Academy of Physician Assistants(VAPA) and Fort Belvoir to host free health physicals for 150 underprivileged and homeless children, aging from 3-12 yo. Backpacks are donated, and the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) and VAPA provide free books and bicyle helmets for the children. They are screened for hearing and vision, medical abnormalities, given immunizations and provided information regarding affordable health insurance. These physicals are provided by 105 health professionals (MD, RN, PA) who volunteer their time and energy for the one day event. Currently there are more than 150 underprivileged children who need the screening but we must limit the number for the event at this time. The date for this year is August 9, 2008. We would like to also provide school supplies for the children so that they can attend school on the first day with the tools to learn and will have all the supplies that the more privileged children have. We have not been successful with the major suppliers ( Office Depot, Staples) in obtaining these supplies due to overwhelming requests from other organizations as well. We feel that providing this group of children with a backpack that contains school supplies would make a difference.. Thank you in advance for your consideration. This program has a six year proven success and with your assistance, we hope to continue to grow in support. Please feel free to contact me at [edited by DS Staff] or Bonnie Lilley who coordinates the event at [edited by DS Staff]