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The LOFT is honored to have accepted the Citation for Outstanding Contribution in Public Health in New York State awarded by The New York State Public Health Association on April 27th at the PHPC Conference in White Plains, NY. The LOFT was cited for its partnership with the Westchester County Department of Health in hosting MPOX clinics at the center's campus from July to September of 2022, ensuring that high-risk LGBTQ+ community members had access to the vaccine in a safe and affirming environment.  The LOFT was one of the first LGBTQ+ Community Centers in the nation to offer vaccine clinics directly on its campus.

The LOFT would like to thank Westchester County Executive, George Latimer, and Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler for their outstanding leadership and support in making the clinics happen, and Sr. Coordinator of Community Outreach and Engagement, Heriberto Contreras who managed the ground operations and led a successful ground operation of clinicians and professionals who made over 700+ inoculations, protecting our community.

MPOX is a serious but preventable disease. The Westchester Department of Health and The LOFT strongly encourage our community to get inoculated, especially as Pride celebrations and more opportunities to socialize increase in the Summer.  To learn more visit our MPOX Resource Page.