Families in Schenectady gathered early this weekend for the Fall Family Boo Bash, a community‑focused fundraiser organized by Ellis Medicine and Hometown Health Centers. The event, held at a local venue in downtown Schenectady, combined seasonal festivities with an opportunity for residents to learn about new health services offered by the two providers.
Community celebration with a purpose
Organizers set up a family‑friendly atmosphere featuring autumn‑themed decorations, games, and light refreshments. Attendees enjoyed activities such as pumpkin carving, a costume parade for children, and a photo booth that captured the holiday spirit. While the event was designed for fun, its primary goal was to generate revenue for the health organizations.
Supporting local health care
All proceeds from the Boo Bash will be directed to Ellis Medicine and Hometown Health Centers. Both institutions emphasized that the funds will help sustain and expand compassionate health‑care services for families throughout the Schenectady community. In recent months, the providers have introduced new programs, including expanded pediatric wellness visits and a telehealth platform aimed at increasing access for working parents.
“Our mission is to keep families healthy and supported,” said a spokesperson for Ellis Medicine. “Events like the Fall Family Boo Bash allow us to connect with the community in a joyful way while raising essential resources to continue delivering quality care.” The Hometown Health Centers representative echoed the sentiment, noting that community involvement is a cornerstone of their outreach strategy.
Information booths and health resources
Beyond the festivities, the organizers set up information tables where visitors could ask questions about upcoming services. Staff members provided details on new preventive‑care screenings, mental‑health counseling options, and upcoming vaccination clinics. Attendees received brochures and signed up for newsletters to stay informed about future health initiatives.
Local volunteers, many of whom are patients of the two health systems, helped staff the event, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that the Boo Bash aimed to foster. The partnership between Ellis Medicine and Hometown Health Centers reflects a broader trend of health providers engaging directly with the neighborhoods they serve.
Looking ahead
Both organizations plan to host additional community events throughout the fall season, focusing on topics such as nutrition education, flu‑season preparedness, and family fitness challenges. By maintaining a visible presence in local gatherings, they hope to strengthen trust and encourage proactive health‑care decisions among Schenectady residents.
The Fall Family Boo Bash demonstrated how a festive gathering can serve a dual purpose: providing families with a memorable autumn experience while reinforcing the vital role of local health institutions. As the fundraiser concludes, the funds raised will be earmarked for expanding services that keep Schenectady families healthy now and into the future.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.