March 5, 2025

Good for the Neighborhood Returns in 2025 with Health and Wellness Events Across WNY

Independent Health Foundation’s Good for The Neighborhood wellness events are back for 2025. These free events bring health-related training and tools to areas where access to health care is limited. The March and April schedule is now posted.

BUFFALO, N.Y. (March 5, 2025) – Independent Health Foundation’s popular Good for The Neighborhood programming is back for 2025 starting on Saturday, March 8th. Good for the Neighborhood is a free, community-based wellness program that brings health-related training and tools to areas where access to health care is limited, offering residents across Western New York valuable resources to support their health and well-being. Attendees will receive training and tools on how to improve their health and the health of their loved ones, as well as one-on-one access to experts to discuss behavioral health, healthy living, and medication options.

In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the Independent Health Foundation will provide on-site medical support at both the March and April events to discuss the disease, which remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

Additionally, attendees at the March events will receive 10-year lithium battery operated carbon monoxide detectors, winter hats, and other items. They will also have access to information on payment assistance for those in need of support with their National Fuel gas bills during the winter months. 

These giveaways are part of a partnership with Oishei Children’s Hospital and National Fuel and its Project Safe & Warm initiative, aimed at supporting members of the community during the cold winter months.

"We care deeply about the people we serve, and we want our attendees to leave our Good for the Neighborhood events with the necessary health information and tools to lead healthier lives," said Carrie Meyer, Executive Director, Independent Health Foundation. "We are proud to have partners like Oishei Children’s Hospital and National Fuel who share our dedication to giving back to those who need it most. Project Safe & Warm winter kits will not only provide essential tools but also peace of mind, ensuring attendees are prepared for the remaining cold days ahead."

"At National Fuel, safety is a top priority. During the winter heating season, November through March, we focus a great deal of effort to make sure that our customers have the information and tools they need to combat the harsh western New York winters. Partnering with Oishei Children’s Hospital’s Injury Prevention Program, we created Project Safe & Warm,” said Karen L. Merkel, Chief Corporate Communications Director, National Fuel. This initiative provides families in need with winter weather kits filled with safety tips and supplies, including a 10-year lithium battery operated carbon monoxide detector. We are pleased that kits will be distributed at Independent Health Foundation’s Good for the Neighborhood events, expanding the reach of this program.”

Each event has different offerings, but attendees at Good for the Neighborhood events could have the chance to get their blood pressure checked and discuss how to maintain their oral health with SUNY Erie School of Dental Hygiene. In addition, attendees are eligible to receive hygiene products, raffle prizes, including gift cards and household essentials such as laundry detergent, lightbulbs, and batteries. The Fruit Lady will be at all events providing a demo and samples of Southwest Quinoa Salad, a Healthy Options® recipe. As part of the Independent Health Foundation, Health Options® will giveaway to attendees a bag of ingredients and recipe card so they can make the dish at home.

The March and April schedule is as follows:

• Saturday, March 8th | 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  Mt. Olive Baptist Church (701 E. Delavan Ave. Buffalo, NY, 14215)
  Featuring Project Safe & Warm winter safety kits, health information, and kids’ activities
  
  
• Tuesday, March 11th | 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  Westminster Community Charter School (24 Westminster Ave, Buffalo, NY 14215)
  Featuring Project Safe & Warm winter safety kits, oral and health information, and kids’ activities
  
  
• Thursday, March 13th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  Doris Jones Family Resource Building (3001 9th St., Niagara Falls, NY 14305)
  Featuring Project Safe & Warm winter safety kits, health information, and kids’ activities
  
  
• Thursday, March 20th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  West Side Community Services (161 Vermont St. Buffalo, NY 14213)
  Featuring Project Safe & Warm winter safety kits, oral and health information, and kids’ activities
  
  
• Thursday, March 27th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  Akron Newstead Senior Center (5691 Cummings Rd. Akron, NY 14001)
  Featuring Project Safe & Warm winter safety kits, health information, and kids’ activities
  
  
• Saturday, April 5th | 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  Rural Outreach Center (730 Olean Rd. East Aurora, NY 14052)
  Health information, kids’ activities, and raffles
  
  
• Thursday, April 10th | 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  Packard Court Community Center (4300 Pine Ave. Niagara Falls, NY 14301)
  Health information, kids’ activities, and raffles