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Fundraiser to be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2024
In a groundbreaking move aimed at bolstering support and fostering health within the LGBTQ+ community, the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center has announced the establishment of a new health organization.
This initiative, spearheaded by passionate individuals and local business leaders, seeks to provide essential services and cultivate a safe, inclusive space for all.
“We are thrilled to announce the establishment of the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center, an initiative that aims to uplift and support our diverse community through healthcare and community building,” said Jet De La Isla, spokesperson for the organizing committee.
At the forefront of the center’s offerings are vital services such as PrEP, PEP, DoxyPep, and STI testing, all aimed at safeguarding the health and well-being of community members.
The clinic started seeing patients around Jan. 15, 2024, and since then, staff have seen 69 patients seeking PrEP, with 197 bottles of PrEP dispensed. You can also secure free condums and lubricant there.
“Many of the patients are existing SETAC patients and were given three bottles as ongoing long-term patients, so they have access to a long-term supply,” said De La Isla.
“PEP, or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a crucial drug that prevents HIV transmission for those who have engaged in unprotected sex. By taking PEP responsibly, individuals can greatly lower the risk of infection,” De La Isla added.
Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) is another essential service provided by the center. This antibiotic, taken after sex, acts as a morning-after pill for STIs, further emphasizing the center’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare.
Operating out of ThrIVe IV & MedSpa initially, the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center aims to create a welcoming environment for everyone, with plans to expand into community activities and additional programs in the near future. The google map location of ThrIVe is here.
“We are grateful for the generous support from major donors and contributions from the Vallarta LGBT+ community,” added De La Isla, acknowledging the vital role played by supporters such as Broadway Cares, Steve Buczek of Beef Dip, Grupo Garbo, Daiquiri Dicks, Vidal Meza, Cantina Catrina, David Smith and Matt Karimi for their invaluable contributions
The organization is led by a dedicated team, including Mike Owens, Mikel Alvarez, Jet De La Isla, Don Pickens, and Javier Jimenez, alongside Medical Advisor Dr. Alain Hernandez and operations manager Fernando Balaños.
To support their initiatives, the center will host its first fundraiser on Wednesday, February 21st, at the Oasis Condominium in El Caloso. With a requested minimum donation of $600 pesos, attendees can enjoy a cocktail reception and performances by Brandon and James, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center.
“We invite everyone to join us in building a stronger, healthier community,” urged De La Isla. “A heartfelt thank you to CODISE and MOVII, integral partners, for working together to make possible the continuity of the PrEP and PEP programs in Puerto Vallarta.”
CODISE is a health organization based out of GDL that is helping provide PREP & PEP to our organization. MOVii is an organization committed to equality and the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community, promoting inclusion, diversity and non-discrimination in all its forms.
For those seeking more information or wishing to register, the center can be contacted via WhatsApp at +52 322 128 6793.
With a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center aims to thrive together with the community, symbolizing the mantra of #StrongerTogether.
