By Elena Tate
For months, Epicenter-NYC faced the challenge of demand for Covid-19 vaccines far exceeding supply. Hundreds of people per day were signing up for help and volunteers scrambled to find them appointments.
Seemingly overnight, things changed; appointments are plenty. Now the challenge is reaching the people who are still in need, and bringing the vaccines to them, or bringing them to the vaccines, or even simply providing information on the safety and efficacy of the vaccines.
Most recently, Epicenter-NYC has begun collaborating with other communities around the country to overcome obstacles in getting people vaccinated. One idea that emerged (thanks to Las Caza Vacunas/Vaccine Hunters of Maryland) is VaxFest2021, a nationwide effort to make the vaccines more accessible and fun (think lotteries, giveaways, balloons and pupusas!).
Upcoming VaxFest2021 events in NYC:
- The Circle Basketball Court, Ravenswood Houses, Astoria Queens: May 29 at 12 p.m.
- St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Jackson Heights, Queens, with music for healing by Percussia: June 12 at 9 a.m.
- Keur Djembe drum shop in Gowanus, Brooklyn, at the Community Drum Circle: June 21 at 5 p.m.
- Ascend Charter Schools in Brooklyn, helping to vaccinate thousands of students and staff before school ends: Date TBD
To get involved or to organize your own VaxFest2021 event, drop us an email vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or hello@epicenter-nyc.com.
