Memphis is set to celebrate the opening of a new health resource in Binghampton tomorrow, as city officials, including Mayor Lee Harris and Commissioner Henri E. Brooks, come together alongside community representatives to inaugurate the latest extension of the ShelbyCares initiative. According to a Shelby County official release, the ribbon-cutting ceremony will witness the unveiling of expanded health coaching services and mental health supports at the Customized Veterans Group facility on Harrell Street.
ShelbyCares, in collaboration with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, is bringing in a certified health coach who will be available five days a week. This new establishment aims to strategically connect also with additional mental health resources, addressing gaps in the community's health systems. Mayor Lee Harris emphasized the value of accessible preventative healthcare, stating in the release, "Our ShelbyCares initiative has already made a difference in the health challenges facing our community. We’ve found that residents who regularly visit ShelbyCares on 3rd are likely to lose weight, lower their diabetic risk factors, and improve their blood pressure. Now, we have the chance to reach more residents with this location in Binghampton and provide more preventive healthcare for free," as mentioned in the same official release.
Commissioner Brooks highlighted the longstanding service of Customized Veterans Group to veterans' mental health in Binghampton and sees the partnership as a means to not only help more veterans but also any resident in our community ready to take control of their physical and mental health. Echoing this, Christi Davidson, Director of Customized Veterans Group, recognized the necessity of addressing physical well-being for holistic care and expressed gratitude for the initiative in the official statement.
ShelbyCares is addressing a significant need, considering over half of Shelby County adults are currently struggling with issues related to being overweight or obese, as heart disease remains the top health concern. Furthermore, the majority of adults in the community haven't seen a primary health provider in the last year. The new ShelbyCares Binghampton center will offer valuable programs, including diabetes health and healthy cooking classes, aiming to empower residents to significantly improve their health outcomes. As per the Shelby County official release, all services provided at this facility will be free to residents, ensuring those who need the support most readily can access it.
