North Carolina COVID-19 Response

In early spring of 2021, Vaccine Ambassadors began working with community organizations in North Carolina committed to increasing access and uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among historically marginalized populations.* While the COVID-19 vaccine is free, there are still many barriers that can limit access to services and prevent people from receiving protection. Many people face hardships in obtaining vaccines through existing vaccine distribution sites. Bringing vaccination services into the community through mobile partnerships is essential in order to ensure that those most vulnerable have easy access.

To date, we have facilitated, co-hosted, or participated in over 40 COVID-19 mobile vaccination events in Durham, Orange, Chatham, Moore, and Duplin Counties. Partnering with faith-based communities and prioritizing underserved areas that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic has been key.

Working with many organizations that have had boots on the ground since day one has been a rewarding and humbling experience. As the situation continues to unfold and new recommendations are outlined, we will remain committed to vaccine equity at home and abroad.

How We Partner in the Community

• Act as a liaison between those interested in hosting mobile vaccination clinics and vaccine providers, onsite testing, and community outreach services
• Develop interventions and tools to help optimize completion of the COVID-19 series to close the gap between first and second doses
• Provide financial support ($10-20 grocery cards) to offset costs (transportation, childcare, missed wages) to decrease barriers to vaccine access- subject to available funds
• Maintain an easy-to-use calendar of local COVID-19 vaccine events