OSHKOSH, Wis. (NBC 26) -- In an attempt to convince the unvaccinated to get a shot today Governor Tony Evers announced a new program that will offer $100 gift cards to those willing to get vaccinated.
On Monday morning in Oshkosh public health leaders, Governor Evers and the city's mayor met up to emphasize the devastating effects which the Delta Variant is having on communities across Wisconsin.
"Nine people died in my neighborhood. In less than one square mile over a dozen people lost their lives in another neighborhood. These and scores of others were preventable deaths from Covid-19," said Oshkosh Mayor Lori Palmeri.
Mayor Palmeri described the loss countless people are feeling right now, but she and Governor Evers also wanted to turn the focus on how to change the trend.
"It is time folks. I'm calling on all eligible Wisconsinites who have not gotten the Covid-19 vaccination yet to step up," said Governor Evers.
Currently, just over 50 percent of Wisconsinites have gotten vaccinated. But a new reward is being offered to those who haven't received a shot yet, and the hope is it the reward will draw some interest.
"From now until Labor Day if you're a Wisconsin resident and you get your first Covid-19 shot you'll get 100 bucks. Isn't that something? Get vaccinated, get 100 bucks," added Evers.
Months ago, when other states were rolling out incentives, Governor Evers was not on board with the idea.
"I'll be frank with you, I was one of the skeptics of this discussion."
But in an attempt to curb the virus' spread, public health leaders and the Governor are hopeful they can get support from those who are unvaccinated.
"We really need everybody to do what they can to protect themselves, their family members, their loved ones. That's why," said Karen Timberlake the Secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
To receive the visa gift card loaded with $100 people will have to get the shot before Labor Day, be 12-years of age or older, and also, be a resident of Wisconsin.
The incentive is only available to residents who get the vaccine in Wisconsin. Additionally, to qualify individuals will have to have received the shot between August 20th and September 6th..
After receiving a shot, check out the DHS website to get your $100 Visa gift card. If you need help, call (844) 684-1064.
