There will be a free food distribution event also offering free haircuts, rapid HIV testing, and community resources this Friday.

The event is hosted by Clinica Sierra Vista and Central California Food Bank.

It will be at Elm Community Health Center, 2740 S. Elm Ave., from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The first 50 attendees will get a complimentary breakfast burrito, provided by Noble Credit Union. Additionally, they will receive produce and food boxes from CCFB.

Trained healthcare professionals with Clinica Sierra Vista will provide onsite rapid HIV testing, producing results in less than 20 minutes.

Alongside them, Barber Inc. Barbershop is offering free haircuts to encourage participation and foster community pride.

Representatives from various organizations including MedMark Treatment Centers/BAART, All For Youth, The Source LGBTQ Center of Fresno, Project Food Box, and more will share support services.

“By combining food, health services, and a free haircut, we’re creating a welcoming environment where families can take charge of their well-being,” said Ashton Chase, a family nurse practitioner specializing in HIV and PrEP. “We know that eliminating barriers like cost and access is key to improving health outcomes. This event brings everything under one roof.”

National HIV Testing Day

Clinica Sierra Vista and CCFB are collaborating in observance of National HIV Testing Day. The hosts invite attendees to bring friends and family, learn more about HIV prevention, and help spread hope, solidarity, and health equity

National HIV Testing Day, on June 27, encourages people to get tested for HIV and connect with care and treatment.

In 2023, Fresno County saw 178 new HIV diagnoses, a 52% increase since 2019. At 16.6 cases per 100,000 people, the local rate exceeds California’s average of 12.2 per 100,000.

This highlights the urgent need for expanded testing and prevention efforts, Clinica Sierra Vista officials said.