D.A.P. has special incentives for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

(PALM SPRINGS, CA – February 4, 2009)

Although National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day 2009 is February 7, Desert AIDS Project is devoting three days of education and prevention – with incentives for getting an HIV test – to its cause.

The first 50 people to call 760-323-2118 to make an appointment and take a free and confidential rapid HIV test on Thursday, February 5 will receive a $15 Stater Brothers card. Those visiting D.A.P.’s educational display between 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM at their main location at 1695 N. Sunrise on Friday, February 6 will receive a free Starbucks gift card, while quantities last. On Saturday, February 7, D.A.P. will participate at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center Gospel and Health Fair from 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM at Ruth Hardy Park at 804 E. Tamarisk Road in Palm Springs.

 “Even though blacks account for about 13% of the U.S. population, they account for almost half of the people who get HIV and AIDS,” says David Brinkman, Executive Director of Desert AIDS Project. “D.A.P. invites everyone – no matter what their race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation – to get tested. Learning our HIV status is one of the best ways any of us can make the right choices about our health care.”

Desert AIDS Project is the organization in our community where people living with HIV and AIDS can receive comprehensive support, including medical care, case management, and social services. D.A.P. also offers confidential HIV testing at a number of locations and widespread education and prevention services for schools, civic organizations, businesses, churches, and health organizations throughout the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.desertaidsproject.org or call 760-323-2118.