Beaufort County Public Health Department hosted its second annual 411 Community Health Fair on Saturday, and despite rainy weather, the event proved to be a success, according to Health Director Jim Madson.

Between 160 and 180 people came out to the health department on Highland Drive to view displays from various health-related organizations.

The setups included: health screenings courtesy of Vidant Beaufort Hospital, crime prevention information from Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, activity promotion for Grace Martin Harwell Senior Center, information from U.S. Coast Guard representatives, employees from Beaufort-Hyde Partnership for Children, balloon animals, a Relay For Life bake sale, a display for Beaufort County Police Activities League and many others.

Madson said the health department was expecting around 300 people, but because of the weather, that number was lower, and the event had to move indoors.

“I mean it was down from last year, but last year we had a beautiful day,” he said. “We had good comments from the residents of the community. They really like the educational part and the screening part.”

The health vendors participating were also happy with event, according to Madson.

“Many of the agency vendors that were here were also pleased because they got to interact with some resident that don’t (normally) use their services,” he said.

Madson said the health department hopes to continue the health fair for years to come, as well as expand the size of it. Some ideas for upcoming years include vaccinations or podiatry screenings for diabetic patients, he said.

“We feel like we can expand. We had plenty of space this weekend,” Madson said. “We do try to make it kid friendly…so it’s not just for seniors, or you know, for older folks.”

The ultimate goal is to reach out to as many Beaufort County residents as possible, and educate them about the resources and benefits of public health.

“It’s not a very expensive endeavor,” Madson said. “It’s been too much a benefit to not want it to go on.”