On November 9th, 130 visitors attended the Health Market at Nieuw Den Helder. They gathered information and participated in various sports and exercise activities. The 't Wijkhuis community center, where the Health Market was held, had a pleasant atmosphere that led to many positive conversations. Of the 130 visitors, 105 registered for the vaccination centers.
The Health Market was so well-attended that crowds around the test sites where visitors had their health measurements taken caused some delays. Marijke de Wijs of Positief Gezond in Nieuw Den Helder saw this as a great opportunity for next time: "The turnout shows that there's a high demand for such initiatives in the neighborhood. Next time, we'll expand capacity to prevent these kinds of situations."“
Special meeting
A visitor, Riekkie, thanked Marijke for the difference she had made in her life. Health problems like instability and osteoporosis had left her without independence. Thanks to programs like "In Balance," "Cognitive Fitness," and cycling activities, she regained her freedom. Riekkie now cycles 2,000 kilometers and walks 1,500 kilometers annually. "It was a goosebumps moment. This story really resonated with me," said Marijke. Experiences like these demonstrate how such initiatives focused on health and social connection truly change the lives of local residents.
On to the next edition
After their visit, Health Market visitors completed surveys to express their wishes and needs. This gave Positively Healthy in New Den Helder insight into what residents would like to see during a Health Market. Topics such as exercise and sports, healthy eating, increased contact with residents, and mental health emerged. Feedback from the survey will be used to inform further steps for residents. "The Health Market taught us a lot about the wishes and needs of the residents of New Den Helder. We are eager to translate these wishes and needs into clear actions," says Marijke.
