Downstate Collaboration Delivers Health Education and Free Resources for Immigrant Community

By Office of the President | Jun 5, 2024

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SUNY Downstate recently hosted an Immigrant Resource Fair on campus in collaboration with the Office of NYS Senator Zellnor Myrie. This event featured representation from Downstate and numerous community-based organizations. Volunteers from our Center for Health Promotion and Wellness, the Brooklyn Free Clinic, the School of Public Health, and the Department of Surgery provided culturally sensitive information tailored to the specific issues and concerns of immigrants.

Topics covered included maintaining good oral hygiene, eating healthier meals, increasing physical activity, and preventing and managing chronic illnesses. Our volunteers also showcased some of the specialized services available at Downstate Health, particularly in vascular and pediatric surgery. All attendees received free hot meals and fresh produce.

Providing free resources to immigrants is crucial as it helps integrate them into the community, ensuring they have access to essential health services and support systems. This kind of support is vital for building a healthy, inclusive society where all members can contribute effectively.

Betty Jung Immigrant Resource

We extend our deepest thanks to those who supported this significant event. We are particularly grateful to Betty Jung, RN, from the Center for Community Health Promotion and Wellness, Alishia Goodridge, AVP of Government and Community Relations, and Israel Maldonado, Chief of University Police. Their collaboration with Senator Myrie’s office was essential in coordinating this event and ensuring its success.

A special shout-out and appreciation go to School of Public Health students Grace Paul, Kaylee Gutierrez, and Makeda Patrick, as well as Sayra Ilyas, COM’27 from the Anne Kastor Brooklyn Free Clinic, Justin Choi, M.D., Division of Vascular Surgery, and Carlos Reck, M.D., Division of Pediatric Surgery. Their participation was invaluable and helped make this event a resounding success.

(Note: For information on Downstate’s Vascular Surgery Services, call 718-270-1981; for Pediatric Surgery Services, call 718-749-1249 or 718-270-8888.