Masks and tests available with emphasis on adversely impacted Black community
Nationwide, the novel coronavirus has disproportionately impacted minorities, and a group in Wichita hopes of lowering the figures in the Black community.
The Black Alliance, which is a coalition of several Wichita-area organizations and activists, said this weekend that they want to offer free testing and masks and have partnered with a few organizations to make that happen.
“Right now is a time of uncertainty and discomfort in our nation for Black people,” alliance member Terrill Florence said in a news release. “As millions around the world protest racial injustice, our world continues to be impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and new infections are on the rise. We must come together during this time and keep each other safe and I’m confident that our alliance will serve as a guiding light, not only for justice, but for our health.”
Kansas Department of Health and Environment data shows that African-Americans in Kansas have died at a rate of 27.52 per 100,000 compared to whites at 6.48. In Sedgwick County, white people have been infected at a rate of 118 people per 100,000, compared to African-Americans at 181.
The alliance has partnered with a few organizations to offer free tests, masks or both while supplies last. The tests and masks are open to the public, with the emphasis on trying to draw awareness for Black people:
HealthCore Clinic will offer drive-up and walk-up testing by appointment Monday through Friday during June. The clinic is at 2707 E. 21st St. Appointments can be made by calling the clinic at 316-691-0249.
The Center at 1914 E. 11th St., Building B, will offer masks to churches in the 67214 ZIP code from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday during June. Each church will be limited to a maximum of 100 masks.
The Greater Wichita Ministerial League will offer testing and masks during a voter registration drive from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday at Saint Mark United Methodist Church, 1525 N Lorraine.
This story was originally published June 13, 2020 at 5:22 PM.