DeKalb County kicks off President Biden’s “National Month of Action” with drive-thru COVID-19 vaccinations, food distribution

Only 26 percent of county’s African American and Hispanic populations are fully vaccinated

Inspired by President Joe Biden’s declaration that June will be a “national month of action” to get more Americans vaccinated against COVID 19, the DeKalb County government, DeKalb Board of Health and DeKalb NAACP are partnering to provide  residents with COVID-19 vaccinations without exiting their vehicles on, Saturday June 5. In addition, one 20-pound box of Georgia-grown fruit and vegetables, one dozen eggs and a 10-pound package of chicken hindquarters will be distributed.

Beginning at 8 a.m., DeKalb County Board of Health medical professionals and DeKalb Fire Rescue paramedics and EMTs will administer voluntary COVID-19 vaccinations to residents 12 years of age and older. If available, an insurance card and identification should be presented. There is no requirement to receive a vaccination in order to receive food.

“We are responding to President Biden’s call to action. Getting potentially lifesaving vaccine into the arms of DeKalb residents will make our neighborhoods and families safer and healthier,” DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond said. “We must increase vaccination rates among people of color and other underserved populations.”

Recent statistics show that only 26% of both DeKalb’s African American and Hispanic populations have been fully vaccinated.

“As more and more people receive Covid-19 vaccinations, this country as a whole is experiencing a decrease in new infections,” said District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick. “However, in DeKalb County, particularly in District 1, new infection cases are rising in certain communities. I am grateful for the many community partners that have joined DeKalb County in raising awareness in underserved communities.”

At 10 a.m., 3,700 COVID-19 Care Baskets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The vaccinations and food distribution will take place at four drive-thru locations:

• James R. Hallford Stadium, 3789 Memorial College Ave., Clarkston, GA 30021
• Former K-Mart store parking lot at 5597 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville, GA 30340
• Buck Godfrey Stadium, 2817 Clifton Springs Rd., Decatur, GA 30034
• New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, 6400 Woodrow Rd., Stonecrest, GA 30038

Since May 2020, DeKalb County has provided fruit, vegetables and protein to more than 35,000 DeKalb County families.

The county is utilizing federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to purchase the produce and protein.

For more information about the county’s response to COVID-19, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/coronavirus.