Several local organizations have come together to offer free HIV tests for National HIV Testing Day.

Selma AIR (Aids Information and Referral), the Selma Friends for Life and Walgreen’s Pharmacy are teaming up to offer the 20-minute tests. All test takers must be 14 years or older.

Health educator at Selma AIR Lydia Chatmon said she’s glad the organizations have partnered to offer the tests.

“People should really give themselves the gift of knowing,” she said. “One of the greatest gifts you could give yourself is knowing your status. The area we cover has one of the fastest growing HIV rates in the state.”

No needles or pricks will be involved in the painless tests. Attendee’s gums will be swabbed and will know their results in a matter of 20 minutes.

The tests, administered by Selma AIR staff, will be held in a confidential area of the store.

Apprehension might hold some from stopping by for the free tests, Chatmon said. However, she wants everyone, especially younger generations, to be aware of their status.

In addition to the free testing, information about HIV and condoms will be handed out to participants.

Chatmon said anyone who receives a positive test result can receive additional information about treatment and services in the area.

“We see this as a great opportunity to not only test people for HIV, but to also provide information,” Chatmon said. “The more informed people are, the better decisions people tend to make.”

Selma AIR also wants to remove the stigma associated with the disease. HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sex, blood-to-blood contact, needle sharing and breast feeding.

“There are fewer ways HIV is transmitted from one person to another, as opposed to how you don’t get it,” she said. “You can sit in the same seat, and use the same public restroom. That’s not how HIV is transmitted.”

Testing will be held at Walgreens, located at the Northeast corner of Highland Avenue and Broad Street. Tests will be administered Thursday and Friday at 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. The final day for testing will be Saturday at 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

For more information, call Selma AIR at 872-6795 or visit www.SelmaAIR.org.