APPLETON, Wis. (NBC 26) -- Among black Wisconsinites, 26-percent are fully vaccinated which is a stark difference between white residents who are vaccinated at a rate that is nearly doubled, at 48 percent. Locally in northeastern Wisconsin pop-up vaccination sites are attempting to even those numbers out.
Not everyone has the same access as others, to get vaccinated. And in Appleton, the owner of RX Link Pharmacy is trying to change that.
"We are starting our first clinic here this Saturday," says Jude Jean Pierre a pharmacist and the owner of RX Link Pharmacy.
Jean Pierre has been a pharmacist in the Appleton area for over 20-years and this week he encourages anyone with concerns related to the COVID-19 vaccine to swing by his pharmacy so he can answer questions.
"So, when they come here to our facility, they have that level of comfort. They feel comfortable communicating with us, asking us questions and that's why we're here," says Jean Pierre.
This Saturday from 1 pm to 3 pm Jean Pierre will give Pfizer vaccinations for free to anyone. But, he specifically wants to cater to those who have concerns and barriers related to getting the shot. He also would like to help more people within his community who are minorities, sign up for a vaccination.
"And explain to them how important it is, especially for the minority community, to come in and get it."
Having a trusted source like Jean Pierre administering the shot could convince some who are on the fence that the vaccine can be trusted.
"Believe it or not, people are still very hesitant about getting the shot," says Trish Sarvela with the Partnership Community Health Center which is one local entity helping establish pop-up clinics in the area.
Sarvela says pop-up clinics can make a difference and get more vaccinations into minority communities.
"We know that we need to engage our Spanish-speaking communities, our Hmong communities, our rural communities. People who have been traditionally left outside of care or healthcare and coverage."
The RX Link Pharmacy is located at 122 East College Avenue in the city of Appleton. This Saturday, July 31st, pharmacists will be giving folks at the location their first dose of the Phizer vaccine.
A $10 voucher to be used at the pharmacy will be given to everyone who gets vaccinated on site. While appointments are not necessary, they are appreciated.
