More than 400 community members received free health services, practical resources and spiritual encouragement during the fourth annual Community Health Fair held June 7, 2026 at the Washington Conference office in Federal Way.
Washington Conference health ministries hosted the event with Center for Multicultural Health and a network of churches, healthcare professionals, volunteers and community organizations. Together, they sought to remove barriers to care for uninsured, underserved, immigrant and refugee families.
Participants received screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and HIV, along with education related to mammograms, brain health, long COVID and vaccines. The fair also offered Medicaid and Medicare enrollment assistance, fresh produce, clothing, youth activities, domestic abuse awareness, résumé support and transportation resources.
Interpreters were available in 10 languages, helping families receive care and understand available services.
Serving Others Globally Mobile Dental Van, founded by Rick and Delray Luce, provided cleanings, X-rays, fillings and extractions for people without dental insurance. Volunteers stayed three additional hours to care for patients with serious needs.
One participant had not visited a dentist in more than 15 years. “I came in with so much pain and leave with gratitude, pain-free,” the participant said.
Twenty-two people received dental services. Another 18 who could not be seen were connected with Blessed Hope Free Community Clinic for continued care.
“The goal was not only to provide services, but also to create follow-up,” said Elida Jerez, Washington Conference health ministries director. “We wanted people to know they had somewhere to turn after the health fair.”
Salud for Life Ministries, led by Oscar Santana, health coach, hosted a nutrition station where families enjoyed fruit smoothies and learned about plant-based food choices. Conversations led to 15 new community contacts and three requests for Bible studies focused on health and prophecy.
An exercise station encouraged participants to stretch, move and jump rope while learning how physical activity supports brain health. Gregorio, participant, discovered that meaningful exercise did not require a complicated routine.
“I learned today that I can take 10 to 15 minutes a day to exercise and receive so many benefits,” he said. “I haven’t jumped rope in years. I didn’t know I could do it!”
By day’s end, 218 meals had been served. Additionally, 47 people received massages. Organizers also received a $1,500 donation in gratitude for the services provided.
“This health fair was more than an event,” Jerez said. “It was an opportunity to demonstrate God’s love through service and compassion.”
Organizers hope nearby churches will continue building relationships with participants through local programs and ongoing care. The fair created connections, restored hope and showed that the church can care for body, mind and spirit together.
Oscar Santana, health coach, prepares fresh fruit smoothies while teaching participants about the benefits of plant-based nutrition.
Community members wait to receive free dental care from Serving Others Globally Mobile Dental Clinic.
Attendees receive free blood screenings as part of the health fair’s preventive care services.
Volunteers distribute food and fresh produce as part of the health fair’s whole-person approach to community care.
Simple activities such as jumping rope encouraged participants to see exercise as an accessible and enjoyable part of daily health.
