COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER BILL LOWRY HOSTS CHICAGO’S LARGEST MEN’S & FAMILIES’ HEALTH FAIR IN PARTNERSHIP WITH “COOK COUNTY HEALTH”


COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER BILL LOWRY HOSTS CHICAGO’S LARGEST MEN’S & FAMILIES’ HEALTH FAIR IN PARTNERSHIP WITH “COOK COUNTY HEALTH”

 

COMMUNITY HEALTH ADVOCATES HELP RESPOND TO ALARMING PROSTATE CANCER, HYPERTENSION, AND WELLNESS ISSUES 

IMPACTING BLACK MEN’S HEALTH

 

“MEN’S HEALTH REMAINS AN UNDER-ADDRESSED PRIORITY IN OUR COMMUNITY. OUR FAIR WAS DESIGNED TO BREAK DOWN BARRIERS TO CARE, CONNECT RESIDENTS WITH TRUSTED PROVIDERS, AND FOSTER A CULTURE OF PREVENTION AND SELF-ADVOCACY.”

 

(Chicago, IL) Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry, 3rd District and Chairman of the Cook County Health and Hospitals Committee, proudly partnered with Cook County Health to host one of Chicago’s largest Men’s and Families’ Health Fairs, drawing hundreds of participants for an afternoon dedicated to wellness, education, and prevention. The impactful event was held at New Life Covenant Southeast Church on Thursday, September 25th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The notable fair featured an array of free health screenings, educational resources, and interactive activities tailored to address the most pressing health disparities impacting Black men and their families.


Commissioner Lowry, a prostate cancer survivor, first launched this initiative five years ago in response to the alarming rise of critical health conditions disproportionately affecting Black men, including cancer, hypertension, and heart disease. With his knowledge, Commissioner Lowry's mission has remained consistent: to curb mortality rates through early detection, proactive education, and equitable access to healthcare.


“Black men should be screened for prostate cancer more proactively. Given the higher risk of developing prostate cancer and dying from the disease, Black men are more likely to have early cancer detection through screening,” said Commissioner Lowry.


This year’s fair delivered a wide spectrum of services, including fitness training, immunizations, dental care resources, mental health consultations, and a special presentation on Alzheimer’s disease.

Attendees also enjoyed free wellness kits, raffles, and valuable resources from community partners and local organizations.


“This event speaks volumes to the many health disparities impacting the Black community. I am grateful to my colleagues, the New Life Covenant Church, and all the agencies and elected officials who have embraced my vision of expanding access to healthcare for people of color and the poor,” Commissioner Lowry added.


The fair featured a wide range of health and wellness resources for attendees. Comprehensive health screenings were offered to support early detection and general wellness, while interactive health and fitness trainings provided demonstrations on exercise techniques and nutrition. Mental health services were available through confidential counseling and referrals, while dental care resources provided participants with access to oral hygiene education and opportunities for preventive exams. The event also featured an engaging “Ask the Doctor” panel session, during which local healthcare leaders shared their expertise and answered questions from the community. In addition, families enjoyed free giveaways, raffles, and access to community resources, including complimentary wellness kits and valuable information from local organizations.


Distinguished speakers and panelists joined the effort to amplify the importance of healthcare equity, including Pastor John Hannah (New Life Covenant Church), Clerk Monica Gordon (Cook County Clerk’s Office), Dr. Erik Mikaitis (CEO, Cook County Health), Alderman Michelle Harris (8th Ward), representatives from Black Men United, and several fellow Cook County Commissioners.


Supported by Cook County Health and a broad coalition of community partners, the event reaffirmed Commissioner Lowry’s commitment to building healthier futures for residents across Chicago and Cook County.


Commissioner Lowry remains available for media interviews to further discuss the event’s impact and his ongoing work to champion health equity in underserved communities.


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