On Saturday, September 19, Piedmont Access to Health Services, Inc. (PATHS) provided 156 free COVID-19 tests to those in-need. As an expansion of the Vance Street Baptist Church Food Bank Ministry that gave away 132 food boxes including eggs, fruit, meat, vegetables, and non-perishables, PATHS collaborated to ensure community members also received Coronavirus essentials, resources, and information.
“It was a very rewarding community event for PATHS to be able to partner with Pastor Maurice A. Ferrell, PhD, and the Vance Street Baptist Church Food Bank Ministry to provide the COVID-19 testing. PATHS had 22 staff participate on-site Saturday as well as others to coordinate the supplies, equipment, tents, and set-up,” shared PATHS CEO, Marsha Mendenhall.
PATHS extends sincere thanks to community partners including Feeding Southwest Virginia who provides food for distribution on the 3rd Saturday of each month at Vance Street Baptist Church and the City of Danville who also participated and distributed bags with washable masks, t-shirts, and snacks.
PATHS Director of Community Programs, Shani Gaylord, commented, “The highlight was the youth that participated in testing and asked a lot of questions about how to protect themselves from COVID-19. After completing their test, they were so excited to tell us it was easier than they thought and would encourage friends and family to get it as well so we can all stay healthy together.”
