DANVERS, MA — State legislators from across the North Shore are inviting their constituents to Danvers for the second annual North of Boston Life & Wellness Expo.
The Expo is set for Sept. 26 at 10 a.m. at Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School. The event is free, open to all ages and does not require registration.
The expo will bring together resources focused on health, wellness and community support. Families, veterans, older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers can take part in free health and wellness screenings, connect with mental health and disability services, explore family and parenting support, and join fitness, nutrition and mindfulness activities.
Live demonstrations and presentations are scheduled throughout the session.
"This Expo is what community looks like," State Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem) said. "In one morning, a neighbor can get a health screening, meet a caregiver support group, and pick up ideas to feel their best. It is free, it is welcoming, and it is for everyone.
"I hope families from across the North Shore come spend the day with us."
For the second year, the effort has been guided by Paul Lanzikos of Beverly, a co-founder of Dignity Alliance Massachusetts and a former state Secretary of Elder Affairs. His work on behalf of older adults helped bring organizations from across the region together for the event.
This year's expo will include dozens of exhibitors from state agencies, local departments, nonprofits and neighborhood businesses.
"We are proud to welcome this event to Danvers again," State Rep. Sally Kerans (D-Danvers) said. "Essex Tech is the perfect place to bring so many wonderful organizations together. Come say hello, learn something new, and see all the ways our community shows up for one another.
Groups expected include Easterseals Massachusetts, the Northeast Arc, NAMI, SeniorCare, the North Shore YMCA, the North Shore Community Health Center, the Disability Resource Center, the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind.
Veterans services and food security organizations, including The Open Door and the Salem Pantry, are also expected to attend.
A vaccination clinic will be provided by Conley Drug Store of Ipswich and will offer Covid, flu, pneumonia, shingles, RSV and TDAP vaccinations.
Newhall Fields Community Farm is scheduled to lead a demonstration on drying herbs and flowers, and Mack Park Farm will share recipes and tips for preserving the end-of-season harvest.
"Good health starts with good information and strong connections," State Rep. Hannah Bowen (D-Beverly) said. "This Expo puts both within reach for every family. I encourage my Beverly neighbors to stop by, ask questions, and take home resources that make a real difference."
Raffle prizes will also be offered throughout the day.
Attendees are invited to bring non-perishable food for donation to participating food pantries, including The Open Door and the Salem Food Pantry.
Providers, businesses and organizations that promote health, wellness and active lifestyles can still sign up to take part at no cost. More information is available here.
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