JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - The Jackson State University School of Social Work hosted a health and wellness fair that brought resources directly to students.

Delicia Young said she learned about stroke risks at the event.

“I learned about strokes being more prominent in women, especially Black women, versus other ethnicities and other genders. And so that was something that will make me keep a watch on,” Young said.

Students said having resources on campus makes a difference.

“A lot of times we don’t prioritize our health. So I feel like having this event and letting us know what we can go to like those organizations and those companies and businesses that are there to help us with our health and with our wellness is very educational,” Kayla Sanders said.

Epidemiologist Warren Jones said holding health events at convenient places are key.

“A lot of men seem to be more comfortable opening up to their barbers. So, it’s not just a haircut that they’re getting, but it’s almost like a counseling session sometimes,” Jones said.

Mississippi is facing a maternal and infant mortality crisis. The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health runs the “baby depot,” providing free diapers and food to help mothers through the first year.

Khaylah Scott with Mississippi Health Advocacy Program said these disparities are not accidents and the solution starts with an informed community.

“I think the needle is moved more in these casual settings, especially in barbershops or places where communities convene, because that’s where real talk happens. And you never know how effective that can be,” Scott said.

Scott said young Mississippians belong in the health advocacy space and their voices matter.

“You can advocate for others as long as you’re demanding more and better for people around you and yourself,” Scott said.

The goal is to keep the conversation going beyond April and National Minority Health Month.