Public Health Officials Team With Pasadena’s Only Gay Bar to Host HIV Testing, COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic

The Pasadena Public Health Department is partnering with the city’s only gay bar to offer an HIV testing and COVID-19 vaccine clinic on Thursday in commemoration of Pride Month, officials said.

The clinic will take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Boulevard Bar, 3199 E Foothill Blvd. PPHD said in a written statement. The bar regularly teams up with the city to provide HIV testing.

The single-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine will be available at the event.

Pasadena Director of Public Health Dr. Ying-Ying Goh said the clinic was part of the city’s ongoing mission of “providing everyone with convenient access to free COVID-19 vaccine.”

“By partnering with trusted businesses such as the Boulevard, we hope that some LGBTQ+ who have not yet gotten vaccinated will feel comfortable to choose to protect themselves and their family,” she said. “Getting vaccinated is so important now, because many activities are starting up again, including gathering at entertainment and social venues.

The PPHD also reminded residents that all those who are fully vaccinated by June 15 are eligible to win state prizes ranging from $50 to $1.5 million. More information on the vaccine lottery program is available online at covid19.ca.gov/vax-for-the-win.