The Alliance for Positive Change held a community health fair in Washington Heights, offering crucial health resources and support to residents.

The organization, known for its year-round commitment to helping low-income New Yorkers living with HIV and other chronic health issues, views this event as part of their ongoing mission to serve the community.

“If someone wants to learn about a medical provider we have tables right there, our testing van is over there where you can get tested for HIV, HEPC and monkeypox,” said Arnaldo Jara, vice president of Care Management at the Alliance for Positive Change.

The Alliance for Positive Change was founded to support those in need, especially in underserved communities. According to recent city data, Washington Heights and Inwood have 27.9 diagnoses of HIV per 100,000 people. The organization's efforts extend beyond events like this health fair.

"We try to improve health outcomes. We provide them with basic needs like pharmacy services and peer training," Jara added.

Joel Castillo, program manager at the Alliance, emphasized the unique challenges faced by the population they serve.

"Most individuals, especially in underserved communities, have a very hard time navigating through the health care system. One of the things we do is empower them by providing accompaniment to appointments if needed – anything that might get in the way of their care," he explained.

The Alliance’s staff also understands the importance of cultural and linguistic sensitivity in their work.

"The participants here are Spanish speaking, so they really feel comfortable connecting with staff who also speak Spanish, we have peer workshops in Spanish," Castillo noted.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the resources offered by the Alliance for Positive Change, visit their website at Alliance for Positive Change or stop by one of their centers.