#TheDayWithTrae - Tamica Gant, a registered nurse and founder of Abundance Health LLC, recently appeared on "The Day with Trae" to discuss her initiative to address health disparities in Tacoma's East Side. Identifying the area as a "medical, nutritional, and financial desert," Gant decided to act, creating the BIPOC Health and Wellness Fair from her passion for community service. The second annual fair is set for July 26th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at the East Side Community Center, a venue she praises for its effective programming and direct access to healthcare providers. The fair's design is informed by health needs assessments from King and Pierce Counties, which revealed high death rates from heart disease, diabetes, mental health concerns, and heart failure among people of color.

Gant noted the enthusiastic support from participants and sponsors, including Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, St. Joseph, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Gilead Science, Northwest Furniture, Elite Consultants, and Jed's Pizza. This widespread collaboration highlights a collective desire to address health disparities and strengthen community bonds. A key objective of the fair is to provide access to essential skills, resources, and opportunities for community members to thrive. Gant proudly announced that this year, the fair will award scholarships to four students of color majoring in health and wellness, a rare initiative for such an event, underscoring their commitment to empowering future healthcare professionals.

Gant's personal experiences, including being the sole Black nursing student in her cohort at Seattle University and facing limitations in advocating for others in hospital settings, solidified her resolve. Now, as a trusted provider with a strong voice, she uses her position to meet community needs. She emphasized that community-led health solutions often have a greater impact than institutional efforts, especially when financial or insurance barriers prevent access.

The fair's theme—community, health, and culture wrapped into one event—aims to make health engaging and accessible. Gant highlighted their goal to celebrate culture and community while empowering attendees with vital resources. The event will offer numerous free services, including dental and hair care in partnership with Paul Mitchell the School of Federal Way, a vaccine clinic with Axe Pharmacy, and a free blood drive with Bloodworks Northwest. The Tacoma Police Department will distribute free toys for children, making it a family-friendly event. With over 50 vendors, the fair is designed as a one-stop shop for comprehensive health and wellness, truly inspiring attendees to take charge of their well-being. Learn More: Learn More: https://www.abundancehealthllc.com/bipocevent/