Free Childhood Immunizations, Free Turkeys This Week

EL CERRITO, CA — Since coronavirus restrictions have been in place, many children have fallen behind on regular childhood immunizations as doctor's offices and clinics were closed or restricted to COVID-19 patients only.

West Contra Costa Unified School District, which must enforce state immunization requirements when students return to the classroom, has arranged a free drive-thru immunization clinic for El Cerrito children on Thursday at the District administration building, 1108 Bissell Ave., in Richmond.

In addition to the immunizations, there will be a food giveaway that includes a free turkey and a week’s worth of food for children 18 years and younger. Safeway is also providing every family that gets their student immunized a 10 percent off coupon for their next grocery purchase at Safeway.

The Ed Fund has also purchased 250 $50 Safeway gift cards that will be given away during the immunization drive.

The drive-thru clinic is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Transportation will be arranged for families that need it.

If you would like to take part and have not been contacted about this opportunity, call the district's Family & Community Engagement department at 510-307-4526 to schedule an appointment.

The immunization drive-thru and food giveaway is sponsored by Safeway, Hill Physicians Medical Group, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

In a letter to the school district community on Friday, Superintendent Matthew Duffy said, "I am proud and thankful to lead a district that does everything possible to serve students. This public-private partnership is going to help more than 700 students stay healthy and safe. We are already talking with Hill Physicians Medical Group about other opportunities to partner, including teaming up on social emotional and mental health."

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