A Christian group in Dallas is hosting a health fair this weekend. Gateway of Grace primarily works with refugees but says the event is also open to all neighbors.
Gateway of Grace says the health fair will include the opportunity to ask questions of local hospitals, clinics and community groups. The organization says interpreters will also be available.
The event will also have fitness workshops, giveaways and activities for kids.
Gateway of Grace says many refugees may have questions about dietary and dental health, how to check for breast cancer and how much sleep kids should get.
"Good health supports resettlement and reduces long-term costs,. The all-important first step is just knowing what to do and where to go," Chief Operating Officer Dennis Page wrote in a statement.
Page says anyone who lives in the area can attend.
"Right next door to the refugees we serve are Americans with the same food insecurity and lack of access to screenings and wellness checkups. Good neighbors share the health," he says.
Gateway of Grace says 299,800 immigrants live in Dallas and account for 23% of the city's population. Almost 20% of those immigrants have arrived in the last five years.
From 2018 to 2024, the American Immigration Council says 25,529 refugees settled in Texas, more than any other state. Refugee Council USA says the most common countries of origin have been Iraq, Iran, Myanmar, Somalia and Vietnam. The council says 57% of refugees who settle in Texas have become citizens.
The organization says just six percent of refugees speak no English, and 42% of refugees over five years old use English as their primary language; of those resettling in Texas, 95% of adults are employed and about half have graduated college or attended some college.
Gateway of Grace says its services include English and resume-writing classes. The organization says it also helps refugees find jobs, counseling, childcare and adjust to a new culture.
The community health fair is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gaston Center: 8515 Greenville Avenue Dallas, TX 75243.
