RI Governor Suggests Charity Donations For Vaccine Milestones

PROVIDENCE, RI — As COVID-19 vaccination rates slow across Rhode Island and the country, state leaders are trying a variety of incentives to get shots in people's arms. From CVS's massive giveaways from $1 million lotteries, states and organizations are trying everything to combat vaccine hesitancy and get the country to 70 percent vaccinated by July 4, Pres. Joe Biden's goal.

Here in Rhode Island, Gov. Dan McKee suggested taking another tack: rather than offering individual rewards, encouraging Rhode Islanders to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated by giving donation to charities as the state reached certain vaccine milestones.

During Thursday's news conference, McKee said he's not a fan of monetary giveaways such as those seen in other states.

"Would you rather give $1 million to one person or spread it out?" McKee said.

The plan is not yet official, McKee said, adding that he is working with the Rhode Island Foundation to create a program when the state reaches 80, 85, or 90 percent rates of vaccination.

If established, the program would also be a way for the state to say thank you and give back to the organizations that worked so hard to keep Rhode Islanders safe and healthy throughout the coronavirus pandemic, McKee said.