Healthy Highland

06/12/2026

🎬 Movie Night at Erwin Park – Tonight!

Join us on the ballfield at Erwin Park for an evening of family fun and community connection, sponsored by the Highland Neighborhood Association in partnership with the City of Gastonia.

🕖 Activities Begin: 7:00 PM
🎲 Enjoy large outdoor games and music before the movie.

🎥 Movie Start Time: Approximately 8:30–8:45 PM
The movie will begin when it is dark enough for the screen to be clearly visible.

What to Bring:
✔️ Lawn chair or blanket
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Family and friends

Come relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a movie under the stars!

06/09/2026

🌞 Operation Fan Heat Relief 2026 🌞
Need help staying cool this summer?
A limited number of free boxed fans are available for eligible Gaston County residents through Operation Fan Heat Relief 2026, made possible by support from the Duke Energy Foundation.

Eligibility Requirements:
✅ Age 60 or older OR an adult with a disability that is worsened by heat
✅ Resident of Gaston County
✅ Living in a home where summer heat poses a risk to health or well-being.

As we age, our bodies may have a harder time adjusting to extreme temperatures. Certain health conditions and medications can also increase the risk of heat-related illness. This program helps vulnerable adults stay safer and more comfortable during hot weather.

To reserve a fan, contact Gaston County Department of Social Services Adult & Aging Services at 704-862-7540. Fans are available while supplies last.

Send a message to learn more

06/09/2026

This week at RAMS Kitchen…

06/09/2026

Strong Men Take Care of Their Mental Health Too

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout can affect anyone, yet many men — especially men of color — may avoid seeking support due to stigma or lack of access to care.

This Men’s Health Month, let’s normalize conversations about mental wellness, checking in with loved ones, and asking for help when needed. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

06/04/2026

Gaston County Environmental Health, NC State University Safe Plates, and NC DPH invite you to attend a free food safety training for individuals and organizations interested in hosting large meal events, including:
• Church meals
• Fundraisers
• Community meal programs
• Volunteer meal services after disasters

Participants will receive:
✅ Food safety resources and training
✅ Resource manual
✅ Food safety stickers and magnets
✅ One free thermometer per group in attendance
✅ Complimentary meal during the training

📅 Tuesday, June 16, 2026

🕛 Session 1: Noon – 2:00 PM
📍 Gaston County Public Library – Community Room
1555 East Garrison Boulevard, Gastonia, NC 28054

🕠 Session 2: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Highland Health Center – Community Room
609 N. Highland Street, Gastonia, NC 28052
(Located in the rear of the building)

📲 Register here: https://tinyurl.com/2p27rbp4
Community Meal Events Training Registration

For more information, contact Veronica Bryant at 919-218-6943.

Image Description: Two red, white, and navy flyers promoting free

06/02/2026

June is Men’s Health Month!

Taking care of your health is one of the strongest things you can do for yourself, your family, and your community. Men in communities of color are more likely to experience chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease — but regular checkups, healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management can make a difference.

This month, the Highland Neighborhood Association encourages all men to schedule a wellness visit, know their numbers, and prioritize their health.

06/01/2026

06/01/2026

🚶‍♀️🌿 Get moving and make new connections this summer with our Senior Walking Club!

Join Gastonia Parks & Recreation every Wednesday from June through August at Rankin Lake for a morning walk filled with fresh air, conversation, and activity. Walking is a great way to boost your health, reduce stress, and enjoy time with others in the community!

📍 Rankin Lake – Meet at the Lake House
🕣 Wednesdays | 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
👥 Adults 50+

If you plan to attend, please call one day in advance to let us know you’re coming: 704-866-6848.

05/28/2026

Join us today at Erwin Park!