CAMDEN, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — A community center in South Camden has a brand-new wing dedicated to health and wellness.
Basic health check-ups, screenings and immunizations are now available at the HealthFirst Care and Wellness Center at the Wiggins Center, a former school building repurposed as a community hub, where several exam rooms and offices will help serve South Camden.
“At the crux of all this, it’s about helping people,” said Camden Mayor Vic Carstarphen. Among the services offered close to home, he says, are sexual wellness checks and STD tests for adults, as well as important immunizations for adults and children.
“I often talk about how, sometimes, we just have to meet our people where they’re at. This new hub, the resources here, the programming here, the partnerships that have been collaborating, are meeting our people where they’re at. It’s inspiring.”
The services available at the health center will be free of charge for patients, funded by the city and county. No appointments are necessary for sexual health services on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Appointments are required for immunizations on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Megan Lepore, the center’s chief of staff, says center employees are excited to offer these essential services, giving residents the power to take care of themselves.
“We can give them the agency to self advocate for themselves when it comes to their health care,” she said.
For more information on services or to make an appointment, call 856-379-7414.