The Cape Girardeau VA Health Care Center will host its third annual Fall Freedom Festival from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 18.

Previous festivals have seen upward of 400 visitors each year, and this event is expected to be similar.

“Freedom Fest began 3 years ago, initiated by our John J. Pershing VA Medical Center employees in Cape Girardeau, as a way to welcome Veterans to the new VA facility,” explained James Warren, interim medical center director. “Since then, it has grown into an annual event for Veterans. We believe it's a fantastic opportunity for Veterans and their families to learn about the many resources available, enroll in care, and connect with staff and fellow Veterans.”

Nearly 30 outreach booths from various VA programs will be set up, including Whole Health, Mental Health, Home Tele-Health, My HealtheVet, Lung Cancer Screening Program, Women Veterans Program, and many more. Subject-matter experts from several VA health services also will be on hand to answer any questions Veterans may have about their health care.

Additionally, several Veteran interest groups will be on hand, including the Missouri Veterans Commission, the American Red Cross, Aging Matters, Veteran service officers, and more.

Free food and beverages, provided by the Bank of Missouri, Salvation Army, Midwest Coca-Cola and Kohlfeld Distributing, will be served from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

A drive-thru flu shot clinic outside the south end of the building will give area Veterans the chance to get vaccinated in a quick and convenient manner, and at no cost; however, if they prefer, they may walk inside to their primary care clinic to receive a vaccination.

“We're excited for another great turnout this year,” added Warren.

For more information about the Fall Freedom Festival or other events and services at the Cape Girardeau VA Health Care Center or other facilities in the VA Poplar Bluff Health Care System, call 573-686-4151 or go online to www.va.gov/poplar-bluff-health-care/