The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) has launched a new condom distribution program that provides free condoms and lubricants to promote sexual health and reduce HIV/STI infections. The program aims to increase the availability, accessibility and acceptability of condoms.
"Let's prioritize the safety and health of our community by practicing safer sex," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "This program aims to promote widespread condom use among sexually active individuals and raise awareness about sexually transmitted diseases."
The new program offers internal or external condoms, lubricants and information on how to properly use condoms, as well as free STI testing resources. Interested individuals and organizations can fill out an order form with their desired amount and product for free pickup at the Main Health building (2525 Grand Ave.). More information about the condom distribution program is available on the program’s webpage.
"The Health Department wants to remove financial and social barriers associated with access to sexual health care, and this condom distribution program, along with access to education and sexual health resources, is an important component in our effort to decrease HIV/STIs and unintended pregnancies," said City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis.
The program will continue through June 2024, with funding provided by the California Department of Public Health. The program aligns with Goal 1 of the HIV/STD Strategy, which calls for the expansion of access to condoms to reduce new HIV and STD infections.
In addition to promoting the use of and increasing access to condoms, PrEP and PEP are provided by the Health Department to individuals at risk for acquiring HIV. Anyone interested in learning more about PrEP/PEP should call or text the department’s PrEP/PEP navigator, Luciano Dumonde, at 562.964.5369.
For more information on the condom distribution program, people may visit longbeach.gov/knowmore and follow @lbhealthdept on social media.