BALTIMORE — A group of advocates have launched an unofficial coronavirus vaccine hotline to help city residents who are 80 years or older who want to get the vaccine, but are having difficulties signing up.
Not only are they targeting elderly residents, but those that are the most vulnerable because of the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on minorities.
According to Baltimore City data, 15 percent of white residents, 20 percent of Asian residents and only 5 percent of African American residents have gotten a first dose of the vaccine.
Advocates say this is not because of a lack of interest in the vaccine, but because of the difficulties with signing up.
"Right now in order to get signed up, you're either lucky or diligent or working your tail off to navigate this crazy maze to find yourself on some list somewhere so you can get these life-saving vaccines. People who are 80 or older and sitting in the city shouldn’t have to do that and we’re gonna provide the hustle that we’ve provided for our parents and grandparents to make sure they are safe."
Manned by volunteers, the new unofficial COVID hotline will work with residents ages 80 or older to sign up for notifications and appointments and coordinate transportation.
Those who need help can call or text 410-929-6024 or email unofficial.Vaccine.Hotline@gmail.com.
