LOS ANGELES COUNTY PUBLIC HOUSING COMMUNITY ENTERS THE HOLIDAY SEASON ON A HEALTHIER PATH

Carmelitos Residents Receive Onsite COVID-19 Tests,
Flu Shots, and Groceries

Long Beach, CA, December 8, 2020 – Last week, the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) collaborated with the Central Neighborhood Health Foundation (CNHF) and Women in Action Reaching Out (WIARO) to offer residents of the Carmelitos public housing development COVID-19 tests, flu shots, and bags of groceries donated by local food banks.

With 3,229 public and affordable housing units in Los Angeles County, the LACDA has witnessed the growing financial and health challenges posed by the pandemic, predominantly to those with limited means and vulnerable populations. In July 2020, the agency took the initiative to supply onsite COVID-19 tests to residents at three of its public housing sites. In partnership with the CNHF, residents were able to alleviate transportation limitations and minimize the risks of further exposure by testing within their public housing community.  Recently, the LACDA heightened its efforts by providing Carmelitos public housing residents with complimentary flu shots. With proof of their medical card, residents received their vaccination with no appointment required. The CNHF played a critical role in servicing residents while also promoting social distancing measures.

Emilio Salas, LACDA Acting Executive Director, said, “In response to the latest surge of COVID-19 cases and the upcoming flu season we are intensifying action-driven conversations with our partners about how to best keep our residents safe and fulfill essential needs.  Augmenting the current health services offered with additional illness prevention efforts is a result of these conversations.”

Additionally, to combat food insecurity faced by many persons with limited means, more than 100 boxes of groceries were distributed to Carmelitos residents. The WIARO, a nonprofit and long-time partner of the LACDA, provided an assortment of foods, including fruit, milk, poultry, and non-perishable items.