Riverside Women’s Health Fair Aims to Educate and Support Community
Overview of the Event
On November 12, 2022, the downtown area of Riverside hosted the Women’s Health Fair, an initiative led by Sanya Dhama, a student at the University of California, Riverside (UCR) School of Medicine. This important event brought together various organizations, including Planned Parenthood, NORA, Reach Out, and the Safe Family Justice Center, among others. These groups collaborated with UCR volunteers to enhance public awareness regarding critical women’s health issues.
Community Engagement
Attendees had the opportunity to visit multiple informational booths, where they gained insights on various topics related to women’s health. Participants not only received valuable information but also had the chance to win prizes like candy and glow sticks, adding an element of fun to the educational experience.
Goals of the Fair
Dhama emphasized that “the fair’s goal was to serve all community members and to highlight aspects of health that aren’t always traditionally recognized as ‘health’ but are deeply important — such as support for domestic violence survivors, access to resources, and the broader social and structural factors that shape well-being.” This inclusive approach ensures that diverse health and support needs are addressed in the community.
Future Plans
Organizers are optimistic about the fair’s future and are working towards establishing it as an annual event, further solidifying its role in community health education.
Role of the Riverside Free Clinic
The Riverside Free Clinic, which operates bi-weekly from a local church, played a crucial role in hosting the event. Primarily staffed by medical students from UCR, the clinic serves two essential groups: underserved patients and aspiring healthcare professionals, making it a pivotal resource in the community.
