BRHD Office Closed on Monday, October 9 

BRHD offices will be closed on Monday, October 9 in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. We will resume normal operations at 8:00am on Tuesday, October 10.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Free Tests

BRHD has ordered our supply of COVID-19 vaccines from VDH. It may take a few weeks, but as soon as they arrive, we will share clinic information via our newsletter, website, social media, and local news outlets. In the meantime, www.vaccines.gov is the best place to find COVID-19 (and flu) vaccines. Select which vaccine(s) you want and enter your zip code. The website will generate a list of locations with your vaccine preferences. Follow the instructions to book an appointment at that location or call ahead with any questions you may have. 

Another great tool to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is testing. When we know we are sick, we can take important steps to keep those around us safe. That is why the federal government is providing another round of free in-home COVID-19 test kits delivered to your door. There is a limit of one order (four tests) per household.  

October Flu Vaccine Clinics

As flu season is upon us, flu vaccines are an important part of staying healthy through the fall and winter months. BRHD is now offering flu vaccines for those 2 years and older, including high dose flu shots for those 65 years and older. 

Vaccines will be provided every Monday in October (excluding October 9, which is a holiday) and November from 1:00-3:30pm at the Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department (1138 Rose Hill Drive, Charlottesville VA). Please bring proof of insurance. Discounted vaccines are available for uninsured adult clients; please bring proof of income for eligibility. Uninsured children are welcome! Vaccine quantities limited, first come and first served. For more info, call 434-972-6269. 

We will also hold a flu vaccine clinic at Yancey Community Center (7625 Porters Road, Esmont VA) on Thursday, October 12 from 2:00-5:30pm. This is a walk-in only clinic, no appointments available. Please bring insurance and/or proof of income. For more info, call 434-270-3216. 

CHW Office Hours are Back!

BRHD Community Health Workers (CHWs) routinely host Office Hours across the District to connect community members with services and resources (like housing or food) and provide education on different health topics, translation services, and a range of other types of support and assistance. Stop in and meet them sometime! 

To view the Office Hours schedules by locality for October through December, visit our Community Health Workers webpage. 

Pictured above: BRHD’s Community Health Worker team. From left to right: Ana Zuniga, Willie-Mae Gray, Jacinto Gonzalez, Linda Glover. 

Test for HIV... from the Comfort of Your Own Home!

Gone are the days of long waits for HIV test results. Now, you can know your status just 20 minutes from the comfort of your own home, no blood required! In-home HIV Test Kits use an oral swab to screen for HIV infections and can be used practically anywhere you feel comfortable. 

In-Home HIV Test Kits are FREE through BRHD. They can be picked up in person, at many community events, or your own mailbox if you want them mailed instead! To get yours, call 434-989-3292 or request one online here.

SPARC of Hope 5K Walk & Run

The Suicide Prevention Awareness Resource Council (SPARC) invites you to the annual SPARC of Hope 5K Walk and Run on Saturday, October 21st at East End Farm in Louisa County (1091 Hamilton Rd, Louisa VA 23093). This FREE event raises awareness around suicide prevention, supports community mental health and suicide prevention initiatives, and honors those personally affected by suicide. There will be speakers, food, a 5K walk and run, mental health resources, and family-friendly activities!

To register an individual or team online, please go to https://www.sparchope.org/registration. You can register on site the day of the event too! We also welcome any virtual participants who may not be able to participate on that day or location but would like to walk, run, or participate otherwise. If you have any questions about this year’s event, please email sparchope@gmail.com.