LAPLACE — In an effort to encourage St. John the Baptist Parish residents to embrace healthier lifestyles, New Wine Christian Fellowship Church is sponsoring two events this weekend with a focus on health.

“Millions of Americans are plagued with preventable, chronic health conditions, and often face premature death as a result of a sedentary lifestyle,” Project Director and Team Leader Dr. Tameka Jordan said. “The goal of our health ministry, Divine Intervention Inc. is to provide evidence-based, practical solutions to improve the health and quality of life for the residents of St. John the Baptist Parish.”

A 5k run/walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. today at Thomas F. Daley Park in LaPlace. On Sunday, a free Health Fair will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the New Wine Christian Fellowship gym located at 1929 West Airline Highway in LaPlace.

Participants can register for the 5k run/walk this morning.

The fee is $10 for ages 7 and over and no charge for children 6 and younger.

The health fair will include numerous local agencies such as St. John Health Unit, American Cancer Society, NOAIDS Task Force, Elmwood Fitness Center, St. John Health and Human Services, St. John Council on Aging, Exceptional Behavioral Health, LOPA and Gem Drugs providing health information and consultations regarding prescriptions, vitamins and possible interactions.

Free health screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, vision, hearing, weight/body mass index, HIV and Hepatitis C will be available.

Residents can also obtain important information on heart health, diabetes, cancer, mental health, hypertension, cholesterol, exercise, nutrition, tobacco cessation, oral hygiene, organ donation and domestic violence.

Door prizes, as well as health and fitness items and refreshments will be available.

For more information, call 985-653-0008 or email nwcfeventinfo@gmail.com.