FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. — “Healthy State Fair fun since 2001!”
Amid the cheese curds, corn dogs, mini donuts, and (insert your preferred food item here)-on-a-stick, you'll find an oasis of health at the Minnesota State Fair. Health Fair 11 at the Fair returns for its 23rd year to offer free or low-cost health checks and health education to people attending the Minnesota State Fair.
How’s your health?
Since launching in 2001, more than 1.45 million screenings and health connections have been tabulated by Health Fair 11 exhibitors.
This year, twenty organizations are offering services like blood typing, memory-loss evaluations, and mental health assistance. Free vision checks are available for children ages six months to 16 years. The entire family can get their annual flu shots from friendly Cub pharmacists. Pick up the official list of state fair foods that are gluten-free and talk with the people who compiled it. Learn about Minnesota’s medical cannabis program from the organizations that oversee it. A coalition of Minnesota medical organizations, led by Mayo Clinic, are joining forces to talk with fairgoers about their lung functions and the value of getting a CT scan.
On select days fairgoers will find information on how to live with sickle cell anemia and kidney disease, breast cancer resources, how to cope with a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, mental health support, and overdose prevention.
Where to find Health Fair 11
Health Fair 11 at the Fair is located on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds at the intersection Dan Patch Avenue and Cooper Street. The building is open from 9:00 a.m.to 9:00 p.m. every day of the Fair.
COMPLETE EXHIBITOR LINE-UP
Here is a rundown of the organizations providing services and education inside the Health Fair 11 building. Please note that age restrictions and hours of availability may apply to some health activities.
Flu Vaccinations and Blood Pressure checks - Cub
Fair time is the perfect time to vaccinate the entire family before sending them back to school or off to college. High dose vaccine will be offered to those over 65 years of age. You must be 5 years of age or older to be vaccinated at the Fair. Be sure to bring prescription cards, medical cards, insurance cards or any other proof of insurance.
In addition, Cub will have self-service machines available to conveniently check your blood pressure and weight/body mass index.
Learn more about Cub at www.cub.com
Cub is a 2024 partner of Health Fair 11 at the Fair. Thank you, Cub!
Kids Vision Screenings - MD5M Lions KidSight Foundation
The MD5M Lions KidSight Foundation, Inc is comprised of members of Lions Clubs from Minnesota, Northwest Ontario and Manitoba in Canada. Their goal is to provide vision screening to all children between the ages of 6 months to 16 years to detect vision problems that can impact kids’ ability to see and learn. All children participating in the vision screening program will receive a pair of children’s sunglasses.
More information about Lions KidSight can be found at: www.kidsightmd5m.org
Lions KidSight Foundation is a 2024 partner of Health Fair 11 at the Fair. Thank you, Lions!
Blood Typing – Memorial Blood Centers
Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) has been part of Health Fair 11 at the Fair since it’s very first year. MBC will be informing and educating fairgoers about the need for blood in their communities by offering free blood typing. Fairgoers will learn they are A+, A-, B+, B-, AB+, AB-, O+, or O-. Participants will also learn how they can help those in need of blood by donating blood, encouraging others to donate or sponsoring a blood drive in their community.
Memorial Blood Centers, a division of New York Blood Centers, in one of the largest community-based, non-profit blood collection and distribution organizations in the United States. MBC servces over 40 hospitals and 16 air ambulance bases in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin.
MBC relies on the local community to donate blood to help ensure a safe and stable blood supply is available to area hospitals and other partners.
Learn more about getting involved with Memorial Blood Centers at MBC.ORG.
Gluten-free Fair Foods List & Celiac Disease Education - Raising Our Celiac Kids-Twin Cities Chapter
Raising Our Celiac Kids (ROCK) – Twin Cities Chapter, also known as Twin Cities ROCK, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Twin Cities ROCK returns to fair this year with their celiac disease and gluten-free awareness booth as part of Health Fair 11.
Twin Cities ROCK researches and compiles the ‘Gluten Free Foods at the Fair List’ each year. This resource provides a lifeline to all those gluten-free fair guests and the ability to enjoy the whole Minnesota State Fair experience without the worry of where to eat. The list can be found at any information booth and at the Twin Cities ROCK booth located inside the Health Fair 11 building.
Twin Cities ROCK has become a fundamental part of Minnesota’s health community, providing essential information for those navigating through their Celiac disease and subsequent gluten-free lifestyle. At the same time, the organization will share community opportunities for children and families with Celiac disease. Twin Cities ROCK offers an abundance of information through their volunteers.
Check them out on Facebook at Twin Cites ROCK or their website https://www.raisingourceliackids.org/
Food Allergy Information & Education - Anaphylaxis & Food Allergy Association of Minnesota
The Anaphylaxis and Food Allergy Association of MN (AFAA) is a Minnesota state-wide, all-volunteer nonprofit whose mission is food allergy education, advocacy, and support. Their motto is “Taking the fear out of food allergies.”
AFAA's booth will have food allergy information, literature, and interactive quiz about food allergies, and on select days Ask-the-Doctor segments featuring leading Minnesota allergists. Contact AFAA by email at info@minnesotafoodallergy.org or check out their website www.minnesotafoodallergy.org.
Medical Cannabis Information
Minnesota legalized medical cannabis in 2015. As of 2023, more than 40,000 people have received approval to use it to treat 16 different ailments. (Learn more). People living with these ailments must get ‘certified’ in order to be eligible to medical cannabis prescriptions. Fairgoers will have two options to learn about the state’s cannabis process.
Option1
August 22-September 2
Green Goods Vireo
Team members will educate fairgoers who are curious and want to learn more about medical cannabis in Minnesota. They will have product packaging demos (NO CANNABIS INCLUDED IN PRODUCT DEMOS, NO SAMPLES OR SELLING OF PRODUCT) and a variety of giveaways and promotions.
Green Good’s motto is To embrace and enable goodness. Vireo is a physician-led cannabis company focused on bringing the best of technology, science, and engineering to the cannabis industry.
Vireo manufactures proprietary, branded cannabis products in environmentally friendly facilities, state-of-the-art cultivation sites and distributes its products through its growing network of Green Goods™ and other retail locations and third-party dispensaries.
Vireo’s team of more than 400 employees, led by scientists, engineers, and cultivation experts, is focused on efficiency and the creation of best-in-class products, while driving scientific innovation within the cannabis industry and developing meaningful intellectual property.
Learn more: www.vireohealth.com or www.visitgreengoods.com/mn
Option 2
August 30-September 2
RISE Medical Cannabis will be talking with patients and potential patients on the products that it offers, how to become a Medical Cannabis Patient, and the benefits of its rewards program.
RISE Minnesota Dispensaries are open now in Baxter, Eagan, St. Cloud, St. Paul, Mankato, New Hope & Willmar, serving Minnesota Medical Cannabis patients. Visit their dispensaries in Minnesota. Find a RISE Minnesota dispensary nearby and find your path to well-being.
For more information, visit the RISE website.
LIMITED ENGAGEMENTS
On designated days, fair attendees can talk with experts on the following topics.
August 22-29
Memory Assessment & Alzheimer's Education – Suite Living Senior Care
Suite Living Senior Care is locally owned/operated company consisting of 18 Assisted Living & Memory Care communities in the Twin Cities area. All of its communities are homelike and intimate, consisting of 32 private suites. Each community offer 60 hours a week of licensed nursing time. The company has over 500 caregivers.
Suite Living prides itself in a higher care model focus so every resident can age in place through end of life. It follows a person-centered care model with allows residents to make choices pertaining to what activities are held at each community. Resident help select the food menu for meals, with options that include three meals a day and snacks available at any time.
Suite Living also provides hospice services. For more information on Suite Living Senior Care, please visit www.suitelivingseniorcare.com.
August 22-24
Breast Health Resources - Breast Health Education Association
Breast Cancer Education Association (BCEA) is dedicated to promoting the early detection of breast cancer and raising awareness in the community of the importance of physical fitness in fighting this disease. Each year, volunteers at the Breast Cancer Education Association help hundreds of people who are affected by breast cancer. Whether it is through cancer screening events in the neighborhoods of at-risk populations, through free educational webinars, or at an inspiring conference featuring expert speakers, BREA is empowering people with the information and tools they need to navigate through breast cancer detection, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.
A program supported by BCEA is the Dragon Divas. The group demonstrates that a full and active life is possible after a breast cancer diagnosis. The Minneapolis-St. Paul area organization provides an opportunity for members to connect with other breast cancer survivors in a supportive environment to enhance physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Dragon Divas honor the memory of those who have died from the disease and the blessings they have bestowed on survivorship. They carry out their commitment with courage and hope, together in the spirit of love.
For more information, visit www.breastcancereducation.org, email info@breastcancereducation.org or call 651-487-3578.
August 22-24
Community Health & Outreach – Pillsbury United Communities
Pillsbury United Communities (PUC) is a cornerstone of support and care for over 100 years. PUC is passionately dedicated to enhancing community health and well-being. It’s rich legacy continues at their vibrant North Market location (4144 Humboldt Avenue North) and the welcoming Oak Park Center (1701 Oak Park Avenue North). PUC provides an array of vital services tailored to meet the needs of its community.
PUC specializes in diabetes and chronic disease prevention and management, offers crucial COVID-19 information, and provides comprehensive assistance with quitting smoking. They have engaging group fitness and yoga classes foster physical wellness, while its referral services connects individuals to other essential community resources.
Pillsbury United Communities proudly sponsors vaccine clinics and health fairs, and host intergenerational forums that bridge generational gaps and strengthen community bonds. Its heartfelt commitment extends to offering nourishing evening meals every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday during the summer. It offers free produce days on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 4-6 PM. Pillsbury United Communities is not just a service provider; it is a dedicated partner in fostering a healthier, more vibrant community.
Learn more about Pillsbury United Communities here.
August 23-25
Sickle Cell Anemia Education - Sickle Cell Foundation of Minnesota
Sickle Cell Disease is the most common genetic disorder in the United States. Sickle Cell Foundation of MN (SCFMN) is a nonprofit community based patient advocacy organization providing patient support, education and awareness for Sickle Cell Disease.
SCFMN provides fun facts, brochures and other supportive information for those who are impacted by this disease, who care for affected individuals or those who may desire more information about this disease. They also provide information on ways to connect with and get involved (i.e. volunteer, donate, sponsor, etc) with the Foundation.
Learn more online at www.sicklecellmn.org or email SCFMN with your questions at info@sicklecellmn.org.
August 24-26
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness - PanCAN Minnesota
The Pancreatic Cancer Action (PanCAN) is a patient and physician supporting organization. It specializes in patient support, outreach, research, physician information, and fundraising. PanCAN’s vision to create a world in which all patients with pancreatic cancer will thrive. Its mission is to take bold action to improve the lives of everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer by advancing scientific research, building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for patients.
The Minnesota Affiliate will be available to answer questions, provide educational materials, informational brochures, and one-sheets. It will distribute pancreatic cancer awareness items such as purple ribbons, purple bracelets, and temporary tattoos, Fair staffers will offer support to anyone who’s been impacted by pancreatic cancer.
August 26-27 & 29
Diabetes Screening - Rasmussen University
Rasmussen University is thrilled to give back to the community by offering preventive health screenings at the State Fair! Its dedicated nursing students will be on hand to provide glucose screenings for fair attendees, helping them understand how their results compare to normal ranges. This is an exciting opportunity to prioritize health and empower yourself with knowledge!
Minnesota needs more people to take up careers in healthcare. Rasmussen University is a starting point for a rewarding healthcare journey. If you've ever considered becoming a Registered Nurse, Rasmussen invites you to stop by its booth to discover the incredible opportunities offered at Rasmussen University. Learn about its dynamic Nursing program and take part in complimentary glucose screenings—an engaging way to connect with the field.
Rasmussen’s BSN program is designed for success, boasting impressive first-time pass rates for the NCLEX that reflect a commitment to excellence. With accelerated options, students can complete their degree in as little as 18 months, paving the way for a fulfilling career. Rasmussen’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is available at Hennepin, Anoka, Eagan, and Bloomington campuses.
Learn more about Rasmussen University’s nursing program here.
August 27-30
Kidney Health - The National Kidney Foundation
The National Kidney Foundation is a major voluntary nonprofit health organization dedicated to preventing kidney disease, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by kidney disease and increasing the availability of kidneys for transplantation. Learn more about the kidneys, understanding kidney health/risk factors/causes, kidney health testing, kidney stones, and more.
Check out the National Kidney Foundation www.kidney.org
August 28-September 2
Overcoming Addiction – Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge
The mission of MN Adult & Teen Challenge (MNTC) is to assist men, women, and teens in gaining freedom from chemical addictions and other life-controlling problems by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
MNTC offers a variety of different treatment options such as: Licensed Treatment; Residential Recovery Program; and Aftercare Outpatient Program (including telehealth.) MNTC has centers in
Alexandria, Brainerd, Buffalo, Duluth, Mankato, Minneapolis, and Rochester.
Learn more at https://www.mntc.org and https://www.mntc.org/dyingforahigh
The organization is also on Instagram: @mntc_hope and Facebook: Mn Adult & Teen Challenge
August 31-September 2
Overdose Prevention - Steve Rummler HOPE Network and Maxx-imum Overdose Awareness
International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31. Two grassroots organizations join forces to reach out to fairgoers who have been impacted by overdoses. The shared goals and programs of both groups include Advocacy, Education, and Overdose Prevention.
The mission of the Steve Rummler HOPE Network is to heighten awareness of the opioid crisis, address its impact on the physical and emotional burdens of addiction and chronic pain, and improve the associated care processes. The network wants to educate the general public about the importance of naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and Steve’s law (Good Samaritan Law).
Learn more online at www.steverummlerhopenetwork.org.
Maxx-imum Overdose Awareness is a nonprofit started to honor the memory of Maxx Zacho. Maxx became dependent on pain killers after an injury. He accidentally overdosed because of his addiction.
August 31-September 2
Mental Health & Suicide Prevention – SHOUT OUT LOUD!
Shout Out Loud aims to bring community awareness to suicide prevention and normalize the conversation about suicide prevention. The organization teaches coping skills and everyday activities that help with a person’s mental wellness.
Shout Out Loud will have an activity for all to try. Stop by their booth to grab a ‘Cooling Canvas on a Stick’ - a fan with an coloring activity. Coloring or drawing can be an effective coping activity as it allows individuals to express emotions creatively, provides a mental distraction from stressors, and promotes relaxation through repetitive, meditative movements.
Website: ShoutOutLoudMN.com Email: shoutoutloudmn@gmail.com
ABOUT HEALTH FAIR 11
Health Fair 11 at the Fair is a project of Health Fair 11, a nonprofit organization with a vision of creating healthier communities through collaborative outreach. Our mission is to provide health education and free or low-cost health screenings to the people in our community. Health Fair 11 operates with media support from KARE 11 TV. Cub and MD5M Lions KidSight Foundation are providing financial support for Health Fair 11 at the Fair.
Want to be an exhibitor in our building and/or become sponsor of our organization? Email healthfair@kare11.com or check out www.HealthFair11.org .
