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Six Dallas County organizations teamed with Rural Health Medical Program, Inc. to hold a Community Health and Wellness Fair on Tuesday at the Food Outlet Parking Lot.

Blackbelt Wellness Center, LIFT Ministries, Snow’s Cleaning Service, Anointed Food Services, AIM, Selma AIR and Dallas County Commission participated in the event. Free HIV testing, masks, food and prizes were all given out.

LaTanglia Williams of LIFT Ministries was the chairperson for the event. Williams was pleased at the various organizations helping out.

“It means a lot because we’re bringing awareness of the COVID pandemic to the community,” Williams said. “It’s an honor to help the community.”

Larry Cowan of Selma AIR and BlackBelt Wellness Center said it’s important to start the new year reaching out to the community.

“We came out here to give back to the community,” Cowan said. “We want the community to know that wherever and whenever that we’re there for them.”

Dallas County Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn said it’s critical to keep sending the message about the coronavirus.

“If you don’t get tested for the coronavirus, you won’t know if you have the disease,” Nunn said. “Our numbers in Dallas County are increasing. You have to put on a mask. We’re glad to be partnering with LIFT Ministries, Rural Health, Selma AIR and Black belt wellness center.”

Rural Heath CFO Keshee Dozier-Smith said the event is a big asset to Dallas County for several reasons.

“Togetherness, multiple non-profit organizations along with our local municipality providing resources to the Selma-Dallas County community to provide educational awareness about HIV testing and how to live healthier lifestyles for both women and men,” Dozier-Smith said.

“Providing access to primary health care and COVID testing that will improve the health of our community. We know that it takes each of us to build upon a healthier and sustainable community.”

Dallas County Sheriff Mike Granthum and Selma City Councilwoman Jannie Thomas dropped by.