In commemoration of National Latino HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, observed on Oct. 15, Latinos Salud is throwing its 10th Annual Hispanic Heritage Food Bazaar.

The event will take place on Oct. 21 beginning at 6 p.m. located at Wilton Manors, 1401 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors.

Latinos Salud has aimed to create a safe, inclusive space for Latino gay men and their partners by providing access to health screenings, community events, and links to other resources. Their Food Bazaar culminates these goals by raising awareness through an exciting and welcoming event for all.

Guests will get to experience local foods representing over a dozen countries as well as performances by gymnasts and drag queens. Last year’s Food Bazaar attracted over 200 members from the community.

Latinos Salud hopes that their events will help encourage the community to get educated on HIV and other STDs and how to prevent and manage the spread.

Across the country, Miami-Dade County ranks first for new HIV infections. Latinos Salud is working to lower the number of cases.

This year, the agency will provide HIV testing for more than 9,000 people through its four locations across South Florida. In addition, Latinos Salud offers a PrEP clinic, case management, vaccinations, support groups, life coaching, and more.

The Food Bazaar is only one of many events that the organization puts on; take a look at their calendar to find events happening every week.

As for what we can do as a community to better support Latino AIDS awareness, Latinos Salud’s Founding Executive Director Dr. Stephen Fallon said, “Help a friend take that first step — to get an HIV test, STD screening, or to engage in care.”

Fallon adds that “Latinos Salud serves the whole South Florida LGBT community.” All are welcome to benefit from their services.