WAWC Healthcare Hosts Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Week

A week focused on awareness, prevention, and support is coming to Tuscaloosa.

WAWC Healthcare will host a series of events February 2 through 6 in recognition of Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, observed each year on February 7, according to a press release sent to Townsquare Media.

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The goal is to provide education, testing, prevention resources, and mental health support to communities that continue to face a disproportionate impact from HIV.

Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was created to highlight the ongoing effects of HIV in Black communities and to encourage testing, treatment, and compassionate care. Health leaders say barriers such as stigma, misinformation, and limited access to healthcare continue to play a role, according to the press release.

Throughout the week, WAWC Healthcare will offer daily HIV testing at its location at 535 Jack Warner Parkway, Suite I. Testing will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. February 2 through 5, and from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on February 6. Those who get tested during the event week will receive a small gift as a thank you for prioritizing their health.

The organization will also provide education and access to PrEP, a daily medication that helps prevent HIV, along with free condom and safer sex kits on February 3. Mental health support will also be available, recognizing the emotional and psychological impact that stigma can have, according to the press release.

“Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is not just about statistics, it’s about people, access, and compassion,” said Crysitna Hughes of WAWC Healthcare.

A virtual End the Stigma panel discussion will be held February 5 at 6:00 p.m. Community members are encouraged to participate and learn more about prevention and support options.

For full event details, visit wawchealth.com or call 205-556-2026.