San Bernardino County hosts 2,400 residents for free wellness fair

San Bernardino County gathered more than 2,400 residents on Wednesday for its annual Fall Wellness Extravaganza. The event served as a centralized hub for family activities, health resources, and direct aid for local households.

County officials organized the day with a focus on practical support alongside entertainment. Attendees received free food throughout the venue. The event also included the distribution of 150 Thanksgiving food bags. These bags are intended to assist local families as the holiday season begins.

The San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Department and the Department of Aging and Adult Services co-hosted the gathering. Their Public Guardian division was also part of the partnership. The collaboration aimed to bring together children, older adults, and families in a single location.

Activities on the grounds included a Ferris wheel, a train, and carnival games. Participants engaged in line dancing, bingo, and a wellness scavenger hunt. A costume contest and live music from the band Knyght Ryder provided entertainment for all age groups.

Health professionals used the event to connect with residents directly. The San Bernardino County Public Health Department offered Narcan training sessions. Staff also provided information on behavioral health resources and allowed attendees to meet adoptable pets.

Josh Dugas, director of the Behavioral Health Department, described the event as a model for community wellness. “It is people coming together, building relationships, having fun and knowing there are resources and people here to support them,” Dugas said. He noted that seeing over 2,400 residents in one place demonstrated that wellness involves belonging, not just services.

The fair offered a low-barrier entry point for residents to access county programs. By combining recreation with health resources, the event allowed families to engage with support systems in a casual setting. The county departments used the day to demonstrate their services in a welcoming environment.