Photos by Michael Ramirez
Jose Morales of Gonzales makes a smoothie while riding a stationary bike at the Gonzales Fire Department. Below, representatives from First 5 Monterey County provide information about their services during National Public Health Week in Gonzales.
GONZALES — Monterey County Health Department in collaboration with the City of Gonzales celebrated National Public Health Week earlier this month at the Gonzales Fire Department.
The April 6 celebration included games and activities for children and health information for families. The theme of the event was “A healthy, safe and prosperous Gonzales for all.”
“This celebration (was) an opportunity for Gonzales residents to learn about current and future projects that will enhance the health and safety of their community,” said Carmen Gil, Health in All Policies manager for the Monterey County Health Department, in a news release.
Children and their parents were treated to healthy snacks, prizes and games, including a chance to peddle a bicycle to create a smoothie.
The event was the cumulation of a year’s work alongside Gonzales residents, who helped create a draft Health and Wellness Element for the City of Gonzales’ General Plan. The Health Element provides the city with the opportunity to promote health, equity and sustainability as well as intentionally consider the community’s health-making policy decisions for the city.
“This Health Element is a great example of this year’s National Public Health Week theme, ‘Working together for a safe, healthy and thriving Monterey County,’” said Elsa Jimenez, Director of Health. “It is only fitting that we should celebrate along with the City of Gonzales as they are moving towards a healthier, safer and more prosperous place for all.”
