GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Grand Rapids Public Schools is partnering with Walgreens and the Kent County Health Department to provide COVID-19 vaccines to its students and their parents and guardians.
The clinics will administer the Pfizer vaccine to students 12 and older.
John Helmholdt, the executive director of communications for grand rapids public schools says the district wants to make sure that as many individuals have access to the vaccine in the community.
“Well, statistically, we know that are predominantly Latin x and African American families have not had as equitable access, that there in some cases are institutional barriers that have created that,” Helmholdt said. “So we as a community, we as a district, we've got to be more intentional in our outreach or engagement and ensuring that vaccines are being done in the neighborhoods, in schools, in nonprofits, in churches, where those families are going to be more comfortable, they feel more welcomed,”
School officials say that's part of the reason they're excited to be offering these vaccines within school buildings.
Throughout the week, two different clinics are being held:
- May 13: Innovation Central High School gymnasium, 2-8 p.m.
- May 14: Union High School gymnasium, 2-8 p.m.
Students 12 years and older are invited to the clinics, but those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Students 18 and older must have proof of age.
The clinics are by appointment only and can be made by scanning QR codes here.
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