The New Bern Redevelopment Commission hosted a “COVID-19 In Our Community: Resources to Help Fight the Pandemic” virtual event on August 10th and encouraged the public to participate. The program was made possible through partnerships with North Carolina Central University (NCCU), Craven County Health Department, Craven County Schools, Holly Parker Health, First Missionary Baptist Church, Elk’s Initiative and the Greater Duffyfield Community.
Historically, communities with poor conditions – unstable housing, low income, unsafe neighborhoods and substandard education – have been shown to be at increased risk of illness. Subsequently, citizens are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and possibly dying from it. Since more education is a predictor of better health outcomes, it is critical we provide this education, specifically related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This virtual event included medical professionals familiar with the Greater Duffyfield Community who spoke about the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the process behind contact tracing and community testing, and how Duffyfield can build resiliency through a pandemic. Craven County Schools representatives offered insight into what the new school year will be like for students.
The panel of speakers and event program included:
• Dr. Gregory Holmes, Pastor, First Missionary Baptist Church
Welcome, Program Overview and Purpose
• Dr. Robert Fisher, Medical Director, Craven County Health Department
The Pandemic from a Medical Perspective
• Courtney Chenoweth, Communicable Disease RN, Craven County Health Department Contact Tracing and Testing
• Holly Parker, Functional Medicine RN, Holly Parker Health
Building Resiliency During the Pandemic
• Carr Ipock, Craven County Schools Board Member, District 3
Back to School – PLAN C
• Dr. Gregory Holmes
Closing Remarks
The public watched the program live on Facebook. It was streamed on the City’s Facebook page. After the panelists’ presentations, the public engaged in a question and answer session.
“It is essential that we identify adequate solutions to this pandemic and methods for rebuilding New Bern as a healthy and vibrant community,” said Jeff Ruggieri, Director of Development Services. “We hope the community will join us in learning how we can support the medical community and each other during this crisis, and how we can move our businesses and families forward after emotional, physical and financial setbacks.”
New Bern’s Redevelopment Commission was created in 2018 and its mission is to rejuvenate and revitalize the Greater Duffyfield Community.
