HHOMA partners with Kroger at free COVID-19 testing sites

Kroger providing hospitality items to volunteers at upcoming COVID-19 testing sites

CHARLESTON, WV – The Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs (HHOMA) today announced that Kroger will be providing hospitality items to volunteers at upcoming, free COVID-19 testing sites throughout West Virginia.
Food and snack items such as sandwiches, fruit, chips, water, and paper goods are generously being donated by Kroger for volunteers at all testing locations. On average, 35 volunteers are present at each site.

“We are thankful for the opportunity to partner with HHOMA, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the West Virginia National Guard on COVID-19 testing sites,” said Allison McGee, corporate affairs manager for Kroger Mid-Atlantic. “We are committed to doing our part to keep our West Virginia neighbors safe and healthy.”

The COVID-19 testing locations are organized by Gov. Jim Justice’s COVID-19 Advisory Commission on African American Disparities in order to provide testing opportunities to residents in counties with high minority populations and evidence of COVID-19 transmission.

“HHOMA, along with Governor Justice’s COVID-19 Advisory Commission on African American Disparities, and all of our partners are infinitely grateful for the kindness of Kroger in our efforts to increase access to healthcare in underserved communities,” said HHOMA Executive Director Jill Upson. “This much-needed support for our tireless volunteers is a shining example of what can be achieved when caring people unite to meet the challenges that have resulted from this pandemic.”

Testing at upcoming sites is available for free and to all residents in selected counties, including asymptomatic individuals. Proof of insurance is not required. Attendees should bring identification, such as a driver’s license or proof of address, to help in returning test results. Those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

The next COVID-19 testing site will be at Windmill Park in Fairmont on Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tests are free and no appointments are necessary. This is one of several sites planned throughout August. A list of upcoming locations and more information can be found online at https://dhhr.wv.gov/COVID-19/pages/testing.aspx.

The Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs, which operates within the Office of Governor Jim Justice, is committed to assisting all underserved citizens across West Virginia and developing innovative ways to address issues affecting minority populations through conversation, education, leadership, and collaboration. For more information, visit our Facebook page at @WVHHOMA, our website at minorityaffairs.wv.gov, or call our office at 304-356-2023.