Much Needed COVID-19 Testing comes to the Tri-Cities

COVID-19 affects African American and the Latino population at a higher rate than White Americans.

The demographic study for Wayne County states that the Cities of Inkster, River Rouge and Ecorse have the highest percentage of African Americans in Western Wayne County. If the research that was broadcast two months ago that African Americans only make up 14% of the Michigan population, but made up 40% of the deaths from COVID-19, then where are the test.?. A report from the Detroit Free Press stated, ' African Americans account for 35% of confirmed cases in the state and 40% of deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

A new organization Tri-Cities United, made up of community members from SW Detroit, Ecorse and River Rouge took this on as one of their key projects. They have been trying since April to bring COVID-19 Testing to the area. For these cities to be known as potential 'Hot Spots', they were concerned that extensive testing hadn't come to the region.

They were excited when Wayne County did a pop-up testing two weeks ago so many of their members volunteered to ensure that the testing event was successful.

They have now partnered with Western Wayne Family Health Center to have COVID-19 Testing within the region of Tri-Cities United. The first testing was held in River Rouge on June 24th and was very successful. Thus far, testing will take place each Wednesday from 1:00pm – 5:00pm at a location in one of the cities. The next testing will be Wednesday, July 1 at Partakers Church (formerly Triumph Church) 2550 S. Liddesdale in Southwest Detroit. The goal is to increase awareness of the importance of COVID-19 Testing and ways to lower the risk of contracting/spreading the virus; Practicing Social Distancing, Washing your hands more often and Wearing a Mask.

Some of the partners are Tri-Cities United, Western Wayne County NAACP, Gordy Memorial Church, Us Helping Us and Telegram Newspaper. Testing is done by Western Wayne Family Health Center. To register for the test call 734-506-0676 or email [email protected].

They are proving the truth in the saying – Teamwork Makes the Dream Work.

Gina Wilson Steward

CEO/Publish