Pop in for vaccination at Chalmers pop-up clinic

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This article was published 10/08/2021 (669 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Though Manitoba’s vaccination rates are high, with 79.5 per cent of the eligible population having had one dose and 69.3 per cent having had two doses as of July 30, some communities with lower uptake are working hard to ensure that anyone who wants a vaccine can get one.   

According to statistics posted on the Protect Manitoba website, Chalmers has one of the lowest vaccination percentages in Winnipeg. In discussions with Public Health, the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation (CNRC) was encouraged to offer a vaccine clinic in the Elmwood neighbourhood. With the help of a Protect Manitobagrant, the CNRC will host a vaccine clinic on Sat., Aug. 14.  

“By holding a vaccine clinic on a Saturday, we are hoping to get those who can’t get to the clinics during the work week,” said Leilani Esteban Villarba, CNRC executive director.

“We will have 200 doses and both first or second doses will be available.”  

It is hoped that offering an incentive care package will encourage residents who haven’t yet been vaccinated to come out and get one.  

“Through this funding we will also be able to provide anyone who gets vaccinated a self-care package to take home. The Community that Cares package will include Tylenol, tea, bottled water, a granola bar and a frozen meal to encourage more people to come get their vaccine,” Esteban Villarba said.  
For many, getting a vaccine can be a stressful experience. Accessing one in a local community centre can make it easier for some who prefer being in a familiar more comfortable place.

The CNRC works with current and former residents, businesses, service providers and supporters to plan and work on initiatives that benefit the Chalmers neighbourhood and the broader community of Elmwood.  

“With our community centre being accessible to a diverse groups of folks from children to seniors, we are hopeful this pop-up site will reduce any anxiousness or stress that comes when receiving the vaccination,” Esteban Villarba said.

“The CNRC in partnership with Elmwood East Kildonan Active Living Centre has organized this pop-up clinic to alleviate any barriers from accessibility and transportation to those particularly in the Elmwood area with receiving the COVID vaccination.”  

The pop-up clinic’s doors will be open on from 9 a.m to 4 p.m .at 180 Poplar Ave., home of the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation. Pfizer vaccines will be available for anyone aged 12 and up.

Appointments are preferred but walk-ins will be accepted. To book an appointment or for more information, call 204-669-0750. Consent forms will be provided at the door or can be downloaded at https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/covid/covid19_consent_form.pdf  

The clinic will be open to all, with priority to Chalmers/Elmwood residents.  

To learn more about the CNRC, visit: http://chalmersrenewal.org