Free Coronavirus Tests Offered At Mecca Catholic Church

MECCA, CA — Free coronavirus testing will be available at a Catholic church in Mecca Sunday.

The testing -- an effort spearheaded by Riverside County, the Desert Healthcare Foundation and several community-based organizations -- is set for Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mecca from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., which is located at 65-100 Dale Kiler Road.

Appointments are not required.

It's one of a handful of free testing events in the eastern Coachella Valley set for two Catholic churches.

"The Coachella and Mecca churches are a staple in our community, and they regularly reach a large number of families and help keep them informed of the dangers of COVID-19," Board of Supervisors Chairman Manuel Perez said.

"I am proud that we are continuously bringing testing closer to our communities, and working with great community partners such as the churches and the Desert Healthcare District, in an effort to slow the spread of this virus."

Testing will additionally be available on the following days:

-- Dec. 15, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., at Our Lady of Soledad parish office in Coachella;

-- Dec. 16, 3 p.m.-7 p.m., Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mecca; and

-- Dec. 19, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Our Lady of Soledad parish office in Coachella.

—City News Service