COVID-19 Testing, Benefiting the Whole Family in Underserved Communities
“The community, through its community association, continues to plan and provide services to their community that residents request and continues to find ways to educate and inform residents about what’s important during the pandemic.”
The inclusion of testing children and families together is a game changer that will now help stop the spread of COVID-19 in underserved communities like West Philly’s Mantua. Photo: J.B.
The inclusion of testing children and families together is a game changer that will now help stop the spread of COVID-19 in underserved communities like West Philly’s Mantua and others around the city. Last Wednesday, (8/26/20), the Mantua community held its 3rd coronavirus testing for residents which included their children. Throughout the day, mothers held the hands of their kids while being tested with the kids holding their breath during the administering of the test.
“My daughter Trinity was tested for COVID-19,” said Ms. Rhonda Oliver of Mantua. I think its great that the test came to Mantua. And it’s not a scary test. It’s very easy and I was glad that the community hosted this testing site.” Thanks to organizations like the Mantua Civic Association (MCA) and the Annex West Health Centeralong with Grace Lutheran Churchin Mantua. They have forged a partnership to provide free COVID-19 testing of children and families around Mantua at two testing sights in the past month and a half.
“I believe we have to switch it up (from the previous testing site Church of Faithin Mantua),” said Mr. Drummond. “So people can have access from the western part of Mantua, where the Church of Faithsits and to the eastern part of Mantua where the Grace Lutheran Church sits.”
“We have our community meetings there,” adde d Mr. Drummond. “And having the test given at both churches gives us an opportunity to get to all the parts of Mantua with these testing sites over time.”
