City of Austin Marks National Public Health Week 2026 with Free Health Screenings, Community Events, and a Call to Action
For many Austin families, access to basic health services—from routine screenings to fresh food distribution—can make a meaningful difference in daily life. This week, those services are taking center stage as the City of Austin and Austin Public Health (APH) celebrate National Public Health Week, April 6–12, 2026, with a series of free events, screenings, and community outreach efforts across Austin and Travis County.
The annual observance is more than a recognition of public health professionals—it’s a reminder of how deeply public health systems shape the safety, stability, and well-being of local neighborhoods. From restaurant inspections and disease prevention to maternal care and community nutrition programs, these services often operate quietly in the background but play a critical role in keeping Austin residents healthy.
A Week Focused on Access, Awareness, and Community Health in Austin
Throughout the week, Austin Public Health is offering free health screenings in Austin, giving residents opportunities to check blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and screen for conditions like diabetes and heart disease. These services will be available at trusted neighborhood hubs including the East Austin Neighborhood Center, St. John Community Center, Montopolis Community Center, Dove Springs Neighborhood Center, and Gus Garcia Recreation Center.
In addition to screenings, community food distribution events in Austin—including Market Day and Fresh Food for Families—are helping connect residents with nutritious options, particularly for seniors and families facing food insecurity. These programs reflect a broader effort to support preventive care and long-term wellness at the neighborhood level.
Families can also attend the Black Maternal Health Fair: “It’s a Birthing Thang” on April 11 at the ACC Eastview African American Cultural Center, an event focused on maternal health awareness, resources, and support.
Public Health in Austin: Essential Services in a Time of Change
While the week celebrates progress, it also arrives during a period of ongoing challenges. Austin Public Health has been navigating federal funding disruptions that threaten key programs across the region.
Half of APH’s staff and nearly half of its overall budget rely on grant funding, and as of mid-2025, the department has already lost or is at risk of losing nearly 10% of that funding. These reductions could impact services that many Austin residents depend on, including mobile vaccination programs, HIV and STI testing, refugee health screenings, tuberculosis treatment, and disease surveillance efforts.
Despite these pressures, local health leaders emphasize that core services remain active and that community engagement is more important than ever.
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“National Public Health Week is a moment to recognize our staff and the programs that keep our community strong, but it’s also an invitation to get involved,” said Austin Public Health Director Adrienne Sturrup. “Public health works best when our community is engaged. Visit our centers and clinics, see what we offer, and help us build a healthier Austin for everyone.”
“Every day, our public health staff work to ensure Austin and Travis County remain healthy places for families to live, grow, and celebrate safely,” said Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. “They do this while confronting new challenges on an almost daily basis. I couldn’t be more grateful for the dedicated people who make our mission possible."
Why National Public Health Week Matters for Austin Neighborhoods
The themes of National Public Health Week 2026, led by the American Public Health Association, highlight how health outcomes are shaped not just by hospitals, but by everyday systems and choices. Topics such as government partnerships, scientific advancement, community leadership, and individual action all point to a shared responsibility in building healthier communities.
For Austin residents, this can look like:
- Taking advantage of free health screenings near you
- Participating in local food distribution programs
- Visiting neighborhood centers for family support services
- Staying informed about public health resources and updates
These small steps, combined with coordinated efforts across city departments and community organizations, contribute to a stronger, more resilient Austin.
What Happens Next: Staying Engaged Beyond the Week
While National Public Health Week runs through April 12, the services and programs highlighted throughout the week continue year-round. Austin Public Health encourages residents to explore its full range of offerings, including support for new mothers, STI testing, chronic disease management, and community wellness programs.
As Austin continues to grow, maintaining access to these services—and understanding their impact—remains a shared priority for families, neighborhoods, and local leaders alike. Residents looking for free health services in Austin, community health programs, or Austin Public Health events can find more information through official City of Austin resources.
For continued updates on local initiatives and community developments in Austin, stay connected with My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.