GETS REAL: COVID-19 testing site located in an underserved Jacksonville community receives big donation

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A local COVID-19 testing site serving underserved communities is now ramping up its production after a big donation for more supplies.

AGAPE Community Health Network located off Dunn Avenue in North Jacksonville almost shut down its testing site due to lack of supplies and foot traffic.

Recently, less people appear to be getting tested for the virus following vaccine roll out.

The center received a $75,000 donation from United Healthcare Florida to not only get new kits, but also get the word out about why testing is still important.

The testing site is located in 32218, a zip code known for having the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Duval County, and medical experts at Agape Health say its because these different neighborhoods are mostly underserved.

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AGAPE Community Health Network CEO told Action News Jax right now minorities are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19.

While the vaccine is important—it’s not widely available yet, which is why they’re pushing testing in these communities.

According to UnitedHealth Group, African Americans are three times more likely to die from the virus and Latinos are twice as likely compared to white people.

Increased testing is paramount to containing the pandemic, and the donation allows the clinic to stay in the testing business.

Families can receive a free COVID-19 test Monday through Wednesday between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. An appointment is not needed.

The site does not do rapid testing. Testing results would be available in one to two days.

Each person who gets tested at the site will walk away with a mask, hand sanitizer, toilet paper and some other health products.

Cox Media Group