The Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students (MAPS) teamed up with the Theta Mu Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity to host “A Pretty Healthy Lifestyle” Campus Health Fair to address food insecurity for elementary school children over spring break. 

With assistance from Arkansas State student organizations, MAPS collected hundreds of healthy food items and packed over 100 snack bags to donate to elementary students in Jonesboro Public Schools (JPS). 

Lorna L. Scaife, support student services and faculty adviser of MAPS, said this brings unity among student health organizations. 

“Hopefully, it will motivate the students on campus to give back and feel like they did something meaningful,” Scaife said. “It will also impact the children of Jonesboro, specifically those at Health and Wellness and Environmental Studies Elementary School here in Jonesboro.”

Scaife said portion sizes in the US are often larger than those in other countries. She said that a well-balanced meal, smaller portions and regular medical check-ups play vital roles in maintaining health.

 “The main reason we organized this event is part of a Stamp Out Hunger Initiative. Many elementary school children receive their meals at school, especially if their families face food insecurity at home,” Scaife said. 

She said it’s important to address food insecurity among elementary school students, particularly during spring break when they lose access to school meals. 

“If we have funding in the budget, we pack bags like this and distribute 100 every week. That shows the number of students in need who face food insecurity,” Scaife said. 

Jakobe White, a junior sports media major from Little Rock,  said a healthy lifestyle is essential for longevity. 

“I feel like I have a healthy lifestyle but I always think I can be a little healthier. That means being consistent, going to the gym, working out every day and making healthy choices,” White said. 

Kendrick Blair, a junior digital technology major from Marion, Arkansas, and president of Kappa Alpha Psi, said he’s gracious for the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community. 

“I’m passionate about community service. Partnering with MAPS was a great decision. Our Miss Kappa Alpha Psi is in the medical field, so I wanted to do something beneficial for her,” Blair said. 

Timia Starks, a junior biological science major from Little Rock, Arkansas,  and the public relations director for MAPS, said it’s important to build healthy habits. 

“I always carve out time for personal care. It’s essential, especially with a busy schedule,” Starks said. 

William Muniz, a sophomore medical resident in the New York Institute of Technology program, said the significance of community health events, particularly for the early detection and management of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. 

“It’s important because we can educate the community about health techniques, recognize current diseases and detect conditions early to help treat complications,” Muniz said.

Categories: News