I came across several things this week that seemed worth sharing. Some are new resources and some are events coming up in the next month or so. Most are free.
Use Your Library Card for Free Admission to Local Attractions
This is a fairly new program and a good one to know about.
The Union County Library now has Explore Passes that library cardholders can use for free admission to several local attractions.
Right now, participating attractions include Cane Creek Park, the Dowd Center Theatre, Kate’s Skating Rink, Monroe Aquatics & Fitness Center and the Monroe Science Center.
Passes are limited and need to be reserved ahead of time. Most can be used once every 365 days per person.
More information and how to reserve a pass: Union County Library Explore Passes
Free Community Baby Shower — August 21
Union County Human Services is holding a free Community Baby Shower & Resource Fair on Friday, August 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Human Services Building, 2330 Concord Avenue in Monroe.
It is open to Union County residents who are expecting a baby or have young children. There will be information about WIC, immunizations and other health and community programs, along with giveaways and a raffle. You don’t have to register ahead of time.
They are also collecting new baby supplies through August 20, including diapers, wipes, baby thermometers, blankets, pacifiers and other items.
Details: Community Baby Shower & Resource Fair
Free Mammograms — September 17
Union County has a Project PINK free mammogram screening on September 17 for women 40 and older who do not have health insurance coverage for annual mammograms.
If you know someone who has been putting off a mammogram because she doesn’t have insurance, this would be worth passing along.
Eligibility and screening information: Project PINK Free Mammogram Screening
Back-to-School Vaccinations
Union County Public Health is encouraging families who still need required school vaccinations to make appointments now. There is also a Back-to-School Vaccination Clinic Exclusion Day on September 22.
Public Health is at 2330 Concord Avenue in Monroe. The appointment number is 704-296-4423.
Information on vaccine scheduling: Union County Public Health
Union County Seniors Can Get Into Cane Creek Park Free for Life
This isn’t a temporary event, but I thought it was worth mentioning because it would be easy not to know about it.
Union County residents age 65 and older can get a free lifetime Senior Permit for Cane Creek Park. Nonresidents who qualify can get a lifetime pass for $5.
You have to get the pass in person at the park and bring a driver’s license or other official identification.
Details about the senior pass and Cane Creek Park: Cane Creek Park
Free One-on-One Technology Help
Union County Library offers one-hour technology appointments for people who need help with a phone, tablet or laptop.
This could be especially useful for an older adult who has a new device or needs help doing things online and doesn’t have someone readily available to show them.
Technology help and other services for seniors: Union County’s senior services and resources page
And One More Free Event Coming Up
Union County is also listing a Back to School Bash on Saturday, August 22, from 1–4 p.m. on its upcoming-events calendar.
For this and other upcoming Union County events, see the Union County Events Calendar.
As always, if you know about a free or very inexpensive program, event or resource in Union County that other people might not know about, please let me know at charityawareness@commonheart.org.