The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has earmarked $3 billion to 64 jurisdictions to bolster broad-based COVID-19 vaccine distribution, access, and administration efforts.
The funding allotment would support local efforts to increase vaccine uptake by expanding COVID-19 vaccine programs and ensuring equity and access to those disproportionately affected by SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19.
“We are doing everything we can to expand access to vaccinations,” CDC Director Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky said. “Millions of Americans are getting vaccinated every day, but we need to ensure that we are reaching those in the communities hit hardest by this pandemic. This investment will support state and local health departments and community-based organizations as they work on the frontlines to increase vaccine access, acceptance and uptake.”
The American Rescue Plan and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act serve as the funding sources, providing support through the CDC’s immunization cooperative agreements in communities nationwide.
According to the CDC, 75 percent of the total funding must focus on specific programs and initiatives targeting increased vaccine access, acceptance, and uptake among racial and ethnic minority communities while 60 percent must support local health departments, community-based organizations, and community health centers.
Funds could be used to identify and train community members to conduct door-to-door outreach as a means of raising awareness about COVID-19 vaccines while helping individuals to sign up for appointments and support hiring community health workers performing culturally competent bilingual health outreach to provide those who received care with the information they need to get a free vaccination.