Annual health fair a success at D.A.P.

(PALM SPRINGS, CA – September 23, 2009)

Almost 300 people attended the 5th Annual Women’s Health Fair at Desert AIDS Project on Saturday, September 12th. Funds from 100 WOMEN, a major donor group of D.A.P., subsidized 88 mammograms and 107 flu shots. In addition, 31 free and confidential HIV tests were provided, thanks to four pharmaceutical sponsors who helped cover the cost and donated lunch. In the true spirit of giving back to their community, two of the HIV testing and counseling volunteers were former D.A.P. Education Department employees whose jobs had to be eliminated after the recent state budget cuts.

“The theme of this year’s health fair was ‘Catch a Falling Star’ because we believe that the health of all women is worth protecting, regardless of their health insurance status,” said David Brinkman, Executive Director of Desert AIDS Project. “We’re grateful to sponsors like Desert Regional Medical Center, Stater Brothers, and so many others, who are reaching out with us to help people right here in our own community. I’d like to say a special thank you to 100 WOMEN, who not only helped offset costs but provided so many volunteers from their members.”

As in previous years at the health fair, life-saving mammograms were again offered free by Desert Women for Equality, as a part of their “We Care” monthly clinics which operate at different locations each month throughout the Coachella Valley. D.A.P.’s dental clinic, the only HIV-specialty facility in Riverside County, handed out dozens of toothbrushes and dental floss capsules with instructions for proper dental care. Many of the 25 participating vendors were so busy they lost count of how many blood sugar tests they administered, blood pressure readings they took, and information they distributed on healthier living. Lots of chair massages and chiropractic adjustments were given – and the Girl Scouts washed about 50 cars to raise money for their troop.

 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.