Data from San Diego County says nearly 94 percent of eligible county residents have had at least one COVID-19 vaccine. But that hasn't been the case in City Heights, so organizations there are teaming up to increase vaccination rates in the community.
Mid-City CAN and the Employee Rights Center are set to host a vaccine clinic Saturday March 26, from noon to 4 p.m.
They’ve been doing this since June. Saturday’s clinic will offer free flu and COVID-19 vaccines, including first and second doses of Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and boosters — for anyone ages 5 and up.
“A no-appointment, monthly, last day of the month kind of effort like ours gives people time to plan and to make sure they don't have to miss work,” Employee Rights Center director Alor Calderon said.
Although COVID-19 cases are on a steady decline, City Heights and surrounding neighborhoods continue to have vaccination rates lower than other parts of San Diego.
Mid-City CAN’s Lexxus Carter said that’s translating into a good turnout.
“We actually saw a very big increase to which we were looking at like 300 people per event with over 200 vaccinations, flu shots as well as completely depleting the resources that we had brought for the community.”
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In addition to vaccines, people will be able to get home COVID-19 tests and masks, along with supplies such as food packages, diapers, feminine hygiene products and even gardening seeds. All free of charge.
“We will also have breast cancer exams and mammographies, and the county is going to be here with a mobile clinic to do sign-ups for medical emergency and expanded medical,” Calderon said.
The vaccines will be available on a walk-in basis, with no appointment required.
