SJFMC Recognizes Farmworkers at Burlington City Art Exhibit Unveiling During NJ Rural Health Weeks

Southern Jersey Family Medical Centers (SJFMC) unveiled a photography exhibit called “From Our Hands to Yours” to recognize the contributions of local farmworkers. The event was held to celebrate the two weeks at the end of September that are dedicated to addressing health challenges in rural communities and increasing awareness of rural health-related issues in New Jersey. At the event, SJFMC displayed over 20 photos that chronicle the lives of local farmworkers in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester and Salem Counties. The farmworkers in the photos are also SJFMC patients. Some of the farmworkers featured in the exhibit assist the Health Center as “Health Promoters,” also known as Promotores. The health promoters spread health education to agricultural workers about diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and other health topics. They also assist farmworkers in scheduling the appointments they need at SJFMC. “Due to the many extreme conditions and challenges agricultural workers encounter, many farmworkers suffer poorer than average health. Without the help of the SJFMC Migrant Outreach team, our providers, clinical support staff and health center, our local farmworkers would lack access to healthcare, health education and other services. At SJFMC, we are committed to helping farmworkers in any way we can. Our mission is to enhance their lives by providing them with compassionate health care and empowering them through health education and promotion,” said Linda Y. Flake, President/CEO of SJFMC. At the event, SJFMC presented farmworkers with gifts, including portraits of themselves in appreciation of their efforts. The New Jersey Primary Care Association attended the event along with New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) dignitaries, Assistant Commissioner for Community Health Services, Nashon Hornsby, and Rural Health Project Officer, Roslyn Council.