Portsmouth, Va. – In a celebration of 124 years of service, St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church opened its doors to the community for a health‑literacy day that combined free medical screenings with information on health‑care options. The event, held on Saturday at the church’s campus, brought together local businesses, health‑care providers, and insurance representatives to help residents better understand their health and the resources available to them.
Screenings and education at the forefront
Attendees were able to receive on‑site blood‑pressure checks, glucose tests and A1C screenings, which measure average blood‑sugar levels over time. “We have blood‑pressure checks, glucose, A1C checks,” said Shirley Wilborn, a coordinator for St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church. The church emphasized that early detection of high blood pressure and diabetes can prevent serious complications and guide individuals toward appropriate medical care.
Wilborn explained the church’s goal: “The more we know, the better we can do, right? That’s why we wanted to establish a place where we could bring all these forces together.” By gathering insurance agents, health‑care organizations and local vendors in one location, the church aimed to simplify the often‑confusing process of navigating health‑care coverage and chronic‑disease management.
Addressing a widespread challenge
Research cited by the Institute for Public Health at University Health indicates that roughly 90 % of adults struggle to find and understand everyday health information. This knowledge gap can hinder people from making informed decisions about screenings, treatment options, and preventive care. The community day sought to close that gap by providing clear, face‑to‑face guidance.
Faith‑based outreach and community impact
St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church has a long history of serving Portsmouth’s families, and its faith‑centered approach to health education reflects the church’s broader mission to nurture both spiritual and physical well‑being. The event highlighted the church’s commitment to the traditional family unit, offering resources that help parents keep their children and loved ones healthy.
Local business vendors also participated, offering health‑related products and services that complement the screenings. Representatives from several insurance companies explained plan options, enrollment periods, and how to access affordable coverage, addressing a common source of confusion for many residents.
Looking ahead
Wilborn noted that the church plans to make the health‑literacy day an annual fixture, building on the momentum of this year’s successful launch. “We want to continue bringing together the best resources for our community,” she said. The church hopes that ongoing outreach will empower more Portsmouth families to take proactive steps toward better health, reinforcing the link between faith, family, and personal liberty.
Community members left the event with screening results, informational brochures, and contacts for follow‑up care. As the church celebrated its 124th anniversary, the day served as a reminder that faith‑based organizations can play a vital role in addressing public‑health challenges at the local level.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
