Bebashi Opens Doors For Annual Thanksgiving Dinner

Philadelphia's Bebashi -- Transition to Hope center, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing HIV/AIDS and other health disparities within urban communities, invites all to their Nov. 16 "Holiday Harvest." The event will feature dinner, entertainment and health screenings, all free of charge.

"The purpose of this occasion is to provide free meals and health screenings to approximately 300 men and women in need," said Development and Communications Assistant Lauren Tankersly. "The invited guests are individuals who are living in rehabilitation centers and shelters, and even some who are homeless."

A select team of undergraduate students from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business will volunteer their time to plan and host the event. Bebashi will provide Thanksgiving dinner and health screenings including the rapid HIV test, Hepatitis C testing, clinical breast exams, blood pressure, insulin and cholesterol screenings, and free flu shots.

Guests are invited to a delicious holiday dinner, plus activities for children and raffle prizes. The host for the evening will be comedian Chaundra Daniels, and music will be provided, courtesy of the Philadelphia Reggae Band.

The dinner is sponsored by Professional Planning Associates, Dr. Jerry Murphy & Chestnut Hill Medical Associates, A.F.S.C.M.E District Council 47 and Anita T. Conner & Associates, P.C.

"As the mission of Bebashi is to reduce and eliminate health disparities among urban, disenfranchised minority communities within the Greater Philadelphia region, this event is an opportunity to connect these consumers to much needed healthcare services and resources," said Tankersly. "Ultimately, the goal is to raise awareness about various health issues and to promote the practice of routine health screenings among underserved populations."

"Holiday Harvest" will be held from 12-5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Vare Recreation Center, 2600 Morris St. in Philadelphia, PA 19145.

For more information, call Chanda Hurms at 215-769-3561 x104 or email [email protected], or visit Bebashi at www.facebook.com/bebashi