CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield to Host Inaugural Community Health Fair to Strengthen Access to Care and Wellness Resources in the District

Free community event to offer health screenings, resources, live entertainment and Metro cards as part of CareFirst’s $2 million investment in Southeast D.C. neighborhoods

WASHINGTON — CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), one of the largest not-for-profit healthcare organizations in the country, is partnering with Events DC to bring together trusted local organizations, wellness experts and families from across the District for the first community health fair.

The inaugural event will take place on Saturday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CareFirst Arena in D.C. The free, family-friendly fair is designed to make preventive care and wellness resources accessible to everyone, with no CareFirst insurance required.

Earlier this year, CareFirst announced a $2 million investment in local programming in the St. Elizabeths East neighborhood, supporting workforce development, maternal health and food access as part of the CareFirst Arena naming rights deal.

“Health is personal, but it also connects us all,” said Ricardo Johnson, Executive Vice President at CareFirst. “By coming together with our community partners, we’re meeting people where they are and creating experiences that inspire healthier living. Real change happens when communities feel supported, informed and united around their well-being.”

Attendees can take advantage of free biometric, glucose, cholesterol and A1C screenings, along with educational sessions focused on managing diabetes and heart disease. The event will also feature fresh produce distribution, hot food and WMATA SmarTrip Farecard giveaways (while supplies last), as well as live entertainment throughout the day. Families can look forward to activities for all ages that create an engaging and welcoming environment where health, learning and fun come together.

The community fair is part of a broader effort to build healthier futures for all who call the District home. By investing in prevention, education and access to care, CareFirst is helping individuals and families take control of their health today while creating stronger, more resilient communities for generations to come.

To learn more about how CareFirst is transforming healthcare, visit www.carefirst.com/transformation.

About CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield

In its 88th year of service, CareFirst, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a not-for-profit healthcare company which, through its affiliates and subsidiaries, offers a comprehensive portfolio of health insurance products and administrative services to 3.5 million individuals in Maryland, the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia. In 2024, CareFirst infused over $403 million to support regional community impact to improve overall health and advance accessible, affordable, equitable, high-quality healthcare. To learn more about CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, visit www.carefirst.com.