Fair in Sikeston to showcase health, counseling, employment services

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Concerned not many people know where to turn to when they need assistance, two not-for-profit agencies have teamed up to teach residents about the resources available in Southeast Missouri.

"No one really knows what services are provided in the community, and if something comes up, they think they have nowhere to turn so they just do without," said Gloria Houston, a registered nurse and professional communication liaison for the Visiting Nurse Association of Southeast Missouri.

Stacey Dame, a social worker for the Scott County Health Department, estimated she receives about four or five calls a week from people asking where they can find various services in the community.

"I think the average person doesn't know what's out there," Dame said. "Right now, there's so much available that even after working at a hospital for several years and now the health department, I'm still learning about places that have been around for a long time."

The VNA and Scott County Inter-Agency Caring Council will sponsor the Southeast Missouri Community Resource Fair from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Elks Lodge in Sikeston. Admission is free.

"The VNA and the Inter-Agency Council staff are very excited about their first upcoming resource fair. The resource fair will allow area residents and their families to find resources available to them," Houston said.

The Inter-Agency Council is comprised of individuals from several local agencies who volunteer their time once a month to meet and discuss assisting people in the community, Houston explained.

The fair will give people an idea of the services available in the area, whether they need them now or in the future, Houston said.

"It's geared to all different types of populations, and it is for anybody," said Dame, who is helping organize the event.

Resources to be featured range from medical services such as different types of senior citizen programs and disabled persons' programs to counseling services, children's services and employment opportunities.

Vendors are still signing up, but some local agencies that have already reserved space at the fair include the American Red Cross, Alzheimer's Association, Guardian Angel and Bootheel Counseling Services, Houston said.

There will also be someone on hand to fit people for diabetic shoes. Other health screenings will be available for those who are interested, Houston said.

Refreshments will be served and door prizes given away throughout the day.

Plans for the upcoming fair began in fall 2007, Dame said.

"The goal was to make it as big as possible and to reach as many consumers, as well as professionals and their clients," Dame said.

By conducting the fair on a Saturday, Dame said event organizers thought more people would be able to attend.

Houston stressed the fair is a free service for children, senior citizens and those who fall between the two.

She said: "It's the best way to find all of the resources available under one roof."

Anyone who would like to set up a booth or wants more information should contact Houston at (573) 471-0520 or at gghouston@gmail.com with any questions or comments.