Stand Up To Poverty and NAACP Islip Smithtown Branch Serve More Than 200 Families at Central Islip Community Health Fair

Central Islip, NY, September 18, 2026 --(PR.com)-- Stand Up To Poverty (SU2P) and the NAACP Islip Smithtown Branch brought healthcare, education and essential resources directly to local residents in collaboration with the Central Islip School District and the Suffolk County Department of Health, Office of Minority Health Services, during the Central Islip Community Health Fair, held Saturday, September 12, at Central Islip High School.

More than 200 families received free care, health education and supportive services during the community-wide event. Thirty-five healthcare professionals representing a broad range of specialties, from pediatrics and neurology to physical therapy, volunteered their time and expertise to address residents’ health needs and help families make informed decisions about their well-being.

In addition to health services, families received free backpacks filled with school supplies courtesy of Style Saves, complimentary haircuts provided by Immortal Barbershop, fresh organic groceries from Long Island Cares, shelf-stable food from Persaud Community Pantry and hot boxed lunches from Pollo Campero.

More than 50 vendors and community organizations participated, connecting residents with healthcare resources, social services and other important information. Participants included Long Island Select Healthcare (LISH), several bureaus within the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, Pamphile Financial, Hope For Youth and Walgreens Pharmacy, which administered flu vaccinations.

Representatives from the New York State Police, Troop L, Brentwood Station also conducted community outreach, speaking with residents about joining the State Police as well as sharing public-safety information.

Astrid Fidelia, CEO and co-founder of SU2P, and Barbara Raymond-Obas, vice president of the NAACP Islip Smithtown Branch, welcomed attendees and recognized the healthcare professionals, volunteers, vendors and partners whose collective efforts made the event possible.

"Approximately 11.5% of Central Islip residents under age 65 are uninsured, compared with about 5.2% throughout Suffolk County. These numbers show why events like this matter. When people face barriers to insurance, affordability, language, or information, medical conditions can go untreated. Today, we are helping bridge that gap," said Fidelia.

Town of Islip Councilman Jorge Guadrón also addressed the community and shared remarks in support of the initiative.

The health fair reflected a shared commitment to reducing barriers to care and strengthening connections among families, healthcare providers and trusted community organizations. By bringing a wide range of free services together in one accessible location, the event helped residents receive immediate support while learning about resources available beyond the day of the fair.

SU2P and the NAACP Islip Smithtown Branch extend their appreciation to Central Islip High School, participating healthcare professionals, volunteers, vendors, sponsors and community partners for helping make the event a meaningful day of care, education and connection. And a special thanks to Kwizine Art for providing lunch to all the volunteers and vendors.