More than Half a Million COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Administered via State Community Vaccination Efforts
[ST. PAUL, MN] — Governor Tim Walz announced today that over 520,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered at Minnesota’s Community Vaccination Program locations around the state. Governor Walz ordered the State Emergency Operations Center to launch the community vaccination program in January to expand access to COVID vaccines.
“Our Community Vaccination Program has been a huge success, helping Minnesotans receive their vaccine in convenient, familiar locations around the state. More than half a million shots administered is a huge accomplishment, and a credit to our Community Vaccination Workgroup and partners,” said Governor Walz. “This team has gone above and beyond the call to plan, implement, and oversee the safe, efficient, and rapid administration of vaccinations all across the state, and that continues to this day. Hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans are protected from COVID-19 today because of their tireless efforts. This program continues to evolve to meet the needs of Minnesotans. That’s why these sites now accept walk-in appointments. It has never been easier to roll up your sleeves and get a vaccine.”
After launching the Vaccine Pilot Program in January, the Walz-Flanagan Administration has continued to expand access to no-cost, low-barrier vaccine opportunities through the Community Vaccination Program.
“The Community Vaccination Program has been and continues to be integral to the state’s vaccination plan,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “Not only have these locations administered more than half a million shots, they have prioritized equity and community engagement all along the way, making sure all who are eligible for the vaccine are welcome. As the vaccine is approved for kids and young Minnesotans, we have already laid the groundwork for easy access to appointments. I couldn’t be more proud of this work on behalf of the state.”
To carry out its mission, the SEOC Workgroup has built a broad coalition of community vaccination partners, including but not limited to the Minnesota National Guard, COVID Community Coordinators, local public health, private partners, non-profit organizations, event venues, sporting arenas, schools, community centers, local and county governments, and many more.
The Community Vaccination Program is currently made up of nine different locations. Walk-ins and appointments for Minnesotans 18+ are accepted at eight sites, including Bloomington (Mall of America), Saint Paul (Roy Wilkins Auditorium), Lino Lakes, Oakdale, Mankato, Duluth, Rochester, and St. Cloud. The federally-supported State Fairgrounds site is currently only administering second doses and will resume walk-in appointments later this month.
Starting Friday, May 14, Minnesotans age 12- through 17-years-old will be eligible to get vaccinated at the state sites that have Pfizer available in Bloomington (Mall of America), Saint Paul (Roy Wilkins Auditorium), Lino Lakes, and Oakdale. Appointments for 12-17-year-olds are not necessary and these sites take walk-ins, with a parent or guardian present. Minnesotans age 16 or 17 must receive permission from a parent or guardian, either in person through being accompanied by a parent or guardian, or online beforehand through the appointment scheduling and registration process. Families are highly encouraged to join 12- through 17-year-olds and get vaccinated at the same time.
How Minnesotans Can Get their Shot at No Cost:
- Appointment hotline: 833-431-2053
- Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. & Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
How Minnesotans Can Get a COVID-19 Test at No Cost:
