The Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force is holding three free COVID-19 testing sites this weekend in an attempt to increase Kern’s testing numbers and access for local residents.

“Many residents and businesses are relieved and excited to see us in the less restrictive red tier stage,” said Jay Tamsi, co-founder of the Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force. “Businesses are finally opening their doors, however, if we want to remain in this stage or improve, we need to continue to keep testing and increasing access.”

The free testing sites will be in East Bakersfield, Arvin and Lamont.

On Friday, Oct. 23, there will be free testing from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Vallarta Supermarkets in Bakersfield, 5951 East Niles Ave.

On Saturday, Oct. 24, there will be free testing from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Di Giorgio Park in Arvin.

And on Sunday, Oct. 25, there will be free testing from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at San Augustine Church in Lamont, 10601 Myrtle Ave.

Walk-ins are welcomed and encouraged as there is no pre-registration requirements, according to a news release. The collaboration asks people to please wear a mask and social distance while on site.

“The more access we can provide the community, the stronger and healthier we will be,” said Tamsi. “This pandemic is very serious, we need to remember to wear a mask, social distance, wash your hands and comply with the CDC guidelines.”

As of Wednesday, nearly 71 percent of the Kern’s COVID-19 cases that have been identified have been identified as Hispanic, and nearly 61 percent of Kern’s COVID-19 deaths have been identified as Hispanic.

Health officials announced Wednesday 79 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 33,630.