Charles R. Drew University and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles co-sponsor the community event
During this unprecedented time of economic and racial unrest, the situation is compounded by daily media reports that COVID-19 is disproportionately impacted Black and Latino communities and these ethnicities are receiving COVID-19 vaccines at a dramatically lower rate than other communities.
Being the pillars of the South Los Angeles community, Macedonia, Baptist Church, Drew Child Development Corporation, Charles R. Drew University and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles united to make a difference by committing to increasing vaccination access to those in underserved neighborhoods by sponsoring an innovative pop-up clinic.
On March 18, over 300 South Los Angeles Early Childhood Education (ECE) providers received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at clinic, which was conveniently located at Macedonia Baptist Church. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., ECE providers lined the blocks leading to the pop-up clinic that was fully staffed with more than 20 health care professionals including seven nurses practicing the social distancing policy.
Before the event, each participant registered online. Immediately following their vaccination, the participants were placed in an observation area for 15-to-30 minutes. After clearance, the individuals were provided with a vaccination card denoting their second appointment date of April 8, (21 days later) at Macedonia Baptist Church.
Macedonia Pastor Shane Scott, board member, and Jackie Clarke, chief financial officer/chief operating officer of Drew Child Development Corporation, also received their vaccination. Stressing the importance of being vaccinated and eliminating barriers to the COVID-19 vaccine, Clarke said, “Vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent disease and save millions of lives each year. When we get vaccinated, we aren’t just protecting ourselves, but also those around us.”
On Saturday, April 24, Drew CDC will present its 8th annual It Takes A Village Community Awards. The virtual event will honor leaders who contribute extensively to the community.
Drew Child Development Corporation is a private, nonprofit organization located in South Los Angeles and dedicated to the education and well-being of at-risk children in the metropolitan Los Angeles area. Drew CDC, a staple in the community with over 30 years of service, has continued without interruption throughout the global pandemic. ECE providers are considered essential workers in their role as supporters of children and families, therefore their health and wellness are extremely important.
For more information, visit drewcdc.org.
