Hundreds of seniors and caregivers gathered Thursday at the Freeport Recreation Center for a Senior Health Fair offering free health screenings, vaccinations and access to community resources aimed at helping residents stay healthy and informed.

The event was hosted by New York State Sen. Siela Bynoe in partnership with Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, Assemblyman Noah Burroughs, Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé and Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy. Community organizations, health care providers and advocacy groups provided services ranging from blood pressure and cholesterol screenings to wellness information and benefits assistance.

Bynoe said the fair's mission centers on improving "access, awareness and affordability" for residents seeking health services.

"We are joined by a host of different providers, from hospitals to AARP to breast cancer organizations," Bynoe said. "We're giving information out to the community. We're doing screenings. We want to make sure people are properly positioned to have a bright future."

She said bringing services directly into neighborhoods helps eliminate barriers that can prevent seniors from accessing care.

"It's important that we get granular and come right into the community to provide their needs," Bynoe said.

NYU Langone Health pharmacist John Sanchi said the health system provided services on-site regardless of insurance status.

"We're offering free flu shots, free Covid shots, A1C testing, cholesterol [testing], CPR demonstration, blood pressure, all free of charge," Sanchi said. "No insurance or anything. Just walk up, come in and we help you."

Attendees said the fair provided valuable information for both seniors and their families.

Larry Klass of Freeport encouraged residents to attend similar events, saying they help connect people with services they may not otherwise know about.

"This is where you can find out things that your family might need that you haven't even thought of," Klass said. "Family members, come on down because your seniors probably don't know what's going on either."

Marie Carmel Houanche of Freeport said the event was especially meaningful during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and praised the range of health and financial assistance resources available.

"I think it's very important for us to come out here and basically support and also test ourself," Houanche said.

In addition to screenings and vaccines, a free Tai Chi class was also offered during the event. Bynoe said a similar health fair is scheduled for Oct. 23 in Rockville Centre as organizers continue expanding access to preventive health services across Nassau County.