Children, families and residents filled Illinois Institute of Technology’s campus to receive free health screenings before the new school year. State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and the Institute for Positive Living hosted their 11th Annual Health, Fun & Fitness Fair last Saturday.

“Every year, the Institute for Positive Living and I host this fair to offer families free health services,” said Sen. Hunter. as she spoke to the crowd. “We understand the difficulties of affording regular doctor visits, receiving immunizations every year and buying expensive school supplies. This is why we wanted to give back to the community.”

Health fair highlights included book bag and supply giveaways and a touching ceremony for breast cancer awareness. Hunter, surrounded by 3rd district residents, released light pink balloons in honor of women and men who have succumbed to the disease. Carolyn Adams, former Illinois Lottery Superintendent, who helped Hunter launch the Ticket for the Cure scratch-off game, was one of the women remembered at the event.

Hunter made her health fair a true community event by inviting local businesses like Cain’s Barber College. Skilled barbers provided free haircuts for young boys in to prepare them for their first day of school. Booths lined the field as children hoola-hooped and enjoyed the summer weather.

“It’s important that our community remains healthy and active,” Hunter said. “But there is no reason we can’t have fun.”

The internationally known Jesse White Tumbling Team performed acrobatics for the excited crowd. Children participated in fun activities, while seniors relaxed in the air-conditioned pavilion. Neighbors treated the health fair like a block party, as they listened to music and enjoyed food.

The annual health fair welcomed hundreds of Chicagoans. Hunter and the Institute for Positive Living aim to attract even more residents from across the city next year.