[slideshow_deploy id=’86263′]
The Bladen County Health Department was brimming with people on Tuesday afternoon for an Open House. Health Educator Marianne Valentiner said the goal of the Open House is to help the county’s residents to learn about all of the various services and programs the Health Department has to offer.
She said many people are familiar with such things as immunizations, but the department also has many other things to offer such as family planning, Communicable Disease Preparedness, environmental health, WIC, the Department of Social Services, and Young Families Connect to name a few things. Also, a representative with the CAP program was in attendance and BARTS and the Division on Aging also had a booth.
While at the Health Department, children could engage in story time with Bladen County Library Director Kelsey Edwards and the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office was offering finger printing for young children. People could tour a fire truck, see an ambulance, and have their child’s safety seat checked.
Bladen County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Jax and his handler Deputy Clark also were offering demonstrations of Jax’s skills. Deputy Clark explained Jax is a Belgian Malinois and his skills include trailing, finding drugs and apprehending suspects who run. The children enjoyed watching Jax as he carefully and eagerly checked each plant and around windows as he showed his skills at finding drugs and other items which has been hidden by Deputy D. Miller who was assisting Deputy Clark for the demonstration.
Valentiner said the East Bladen Keyettes were on hand to assist with the event.
Chrysta Murdoch brought her two children Erin and Delton Murdoch to the event. She said they came to support the event.
Jessica McAllister said brought her son, Cameron McAlister, 2. She said her family comes to the Open House because it is something fun and exciting.
“We come out every year,” said McAllister.
About Author
