Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department is co-hosting two free events this weekend to help uninsured county residents enroll in health insurance plans.

The first event is Saturday, Jan. 24, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Macy’s Court at Tacoma Mall, 4502 S Steele Street. As part of a statewide effort using the online Washington Healthplanfinder tool, trained enrollment experts will be on hand to help people without health insurance understand the health plans and financial help that are now available. In fact, eighty-five percent of people who have enrolled through Washington Healthplanfinder received financial assistance.

The second event is Healthy Black Lives, set for Sunday, Jan. 25, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Topping Boys & Girls Club, 3875 S 66th Street. Hosted by the Tacoma Urban League, in partnership with the Health Department, Washington Healthplanfinder and other organizations, the event includes:

– Free health and dental screenings

– Free insurance enrollment help

– Raffle prizes

– Live entertainment

– Youth activities

– Dinner provided

“When you need medical care, not having coverage shouldn’t stand in your way, which is why the Health Department is involved in these important enrollment events. Many people now without insurance could qualify for free or low-cost coverage,” said Victoria Woodards, chair of Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Health and president and CEO of Tacoma Urban League.

Health insurance provides protection against costly bills, which can bankrupt people who lack resources. Also, people who do not have qualified coverage will face penalties when they file income taxes. The deadline for open enrollment is Feb. 15.

“Getting health insurance is also an important step in improving your health, which is why we are putting on this event for people of color, who can be disproportionately impacted by issues surrounding poor health,” Woodards added. “Regular provider visits, preventive care and positive lifestyle choices help keep you healthy.”