Get Free COVID-19 Tests If You Live In Underserved Ohio Cities

OHIO — Ohioans in "traditionally underserved" areas will soon have access to 175,000 free COVID-19 rapid tests through a new state project.

The Ohio Department of Health is working with the Rockefeller Foundation to provide the masks via home delivery, according to a news release. Ohioans can see if they're eligible for free tests through the Project ACT website.

The site is live now and all orders should be fulfilled within one to two weeks, a spokesperson for the department told Patch.

“Ohio was one of the first states to ensure free rapid testing kits were widely available and has purchased 5.6 million kits, distributing them to schools, colleges and universities, libraries, and local health departments,” said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of Ohio Department of Health. “As the rapid test shortage is felt across the nation, this partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation will increase access to tests for those at high risk and help reduce spread in our communities.”

Ohio is one of six states receiving free rapid tests during the initial phases of the Project ACT program, the Rockefeller Foundation said. Additional states could be added to the program in the future.

“We need all-hands-on-deck to get more tests to more people, as soon as possible,” said Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, president of The Rockefeller Foundation. “At a time when too many people cannot access COVID-19 testing, we are proud to bring together partners from across society to empower Americans with the support and information they need to keep themselves safe and healthy.”