PICKENS — In an effort to educate the community on the resources available to help them to live a healthier, safer lifestyle, Cannon Hospital, AnMed Health, Baptist Easley and Safe Kids Upstate have partnered to offer a health, wellness and safety fair this Saturday in Legacy Square from 8 a.m.-noon. 

The hospitals will be offering free testing such as blood pressure, bone density heel scans, PSA testing, heart rhythm and diabetes screenings, plus a full blood panel will be available at a drastically discounted price of $63. No appointments are necessary. 

“Pickens County has high rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity, which are usually related to lifestyle habits,” said Amanda Dow, director of community relations at Cannon. “This event is aimed at offering free testing and showcasing resources available in our own community that can help change lifestyle habits and change overall health.”

Safe Kids Upstate will also be on hand performing free car seat inspections, organic gardening organizations will demonstrate gardening tips, plus each attendee will receive a free vegetable plant or seeds. 

“There will be free samples of food, door prizes, and fitness demonstrations,” said Dow.  “We will also have representatives available to talk with individuals about qualifying for government food programs. As hospital systems, it’s our duty to make sure our community knows what is out there when it comes to health and safety resources.”

The event is free to the public and is rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held at the First Baptist fellowship hall. For more information concerning Homegrown Healthy, call 898-1331 or log onto www.CannonHospital.org.