OAKLAND, Calif. — Two weeks into a groundbreaking, first-in-the-nation initiative, more than 168,000 Californians have received their first shot of the two-shot series, at Community Vaccination Centers (CVC) and their Mobile Vaccination Clinics (MVC), which are hosted by community and faith-based organizations to microtarget the hardest hit and hardest-to-reach communities. These CVCs opened in Oakland and Los Angeles with the help of local, state and federal government partners, in addition to faith-based organizations, nonprofits and the private sector.
The goal of establishing these CVCs is an ongoing effort to expand the rate of vaccinations in an efficient, effective and equitable manner. This joint partnership also has an explicit focus on making sure that communities with a high risk of COVID-19 exposure and infection are not left behind and have access to these lifesaving vaccines.
“These joint state-federal sites demonstrate how we can provide more opportunities for vaccination to the hardest hit communities and ensure everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. We will continue to prioritize vaccinations at these sites to make sure that communities with a high risk of COVID-19 exposure and infection are not left behind,” said Mark Ghilarducci, Director of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
Vaccines administered at CVCs are provided by the federal government directly and combined with what California receives to distribute throughout the state. Standard vaccine delivery for state allocations has increased every week.
The federal government is covering all state, local, tribal and territorial costs through FEMA’s Public Assistance program to pay for critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation expenses supporting increased vaccination efforts.
“Because of the Coordinated efforts among government and non-profit partners, tens of thousands of individuals are better protected against COVID-19 after receiving the vaccine at community vaccination centers,” said Tammy Littrell, FEMA Acting Regional Administrator. “As we continue to work together and members of the public register for appointments and follow local guidelines, several hundred thousand more individuals will safely receive vaccinations.”
Both CVCs offer drive-thru, walk-up and mobile vaccination options to address the diverse needs in the community. The walk-up (or pedestrian site) option works especially well for those who use public transit or bicycles. The line moves quickly, and typically you can get a shot and leave within minutes.
Those interested in getting a vaccination at one of these sites must make an appointment via myturn.ca.gov or by calling 833-422-4255. Appointments are required and follow the California Vaccination Guidelines.
The CVC response in California employs a Whole-of-Government approach, involving more than 1,600 individuals, including California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services staff, private sector and federal agency vaccinators, California Air National Guard troops, FEMA staff, plus local, state and federal public health and emergency personnel, among others. Hundreds of Californians have already been hired locally to participate in the effort, with more coming on board weekly.
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