Event will feature student chefs, free health services and fun family activities

In an effort to encourage healthy, active lifestyles, the Houston Independent School District’s Food Services Department is hosting its inaugural Community Health and Wellness Festival on September 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at North Forest High School, 10725 Mesa Drive.  The event is free and open to the public.

“This health and wellness festival is just one of many ways that HISD Food Services strives to inspire families to live a healthy life,” HISD Food Services Senior Manager Brian Giles said.  “It is also a great opportunity to showcase what many of our students are already doing to encourage healthy lifestyles.”

The festival will feature chef demonstrations from Bravo TV’s Top Chef All-Star Tiffany Derry, HISD Food Services Chef Ryan Ng and culinary students from Barbara Jordan High School for Careers. The chefs will highlight healthy eating on a budget using inexpensive items found at local grocery stores to create delicious meals for the whole family.  HISD Food Services will also be providing samples of various menu items.

In addition, there will be free health screenings and immunizations for children, along with informational booths from more than 20 local health organizations.  Attendees will also get to participate in a free Zumba class and enjoy a jump rope performance by HISD’s Jump Rope Club.