As we head into fall, a new wave of COVID-19 cases is hitting communities across the country. The FDA has approved new vaccines to target the latest strains of the virus, but there’s a big problem: many people can’t afford them.1 As of August, the federal program that guaranteed free vaccines for uninsured and underinsured Americans has expired, leaving millions of people vulnerable.2 Without action, the people who need these lifesaving vaccines the most will be forced to pay out of pocket—or skip the shot altogether.
But here’s the thing, YOU have the power to make a difference in your local community. By starting a petition today, you can demand that your local government take action—creating comprehensive COVID support programs, ensuring free vaccines for all, and providing the resources needed to protect our communities.
Now is the time to act. Unfortunately, COVID isn’t going anywhere, and local governments have a crucial role to play in keeping their citizens safe. We need local leaders to step up and ensure everyone in their community has access to vaccines, free testing, and proper medical care for those suffering from long COVID. It’s important that local governments create public campaigns to educate people about the importance of vaccines and testing, so no one is left in the dark about how to protect themselves and their families.
The CDC is sending $62 million to state and local governments for vaccines to protect our communities, but we must ensure that our leaders apply the funds effectively and take steps beyond that, too.3
Starting a petition is one of the most powerful ways to hold your local government accountable—and now, more than ever, we need strong community voices like yours to demand action. You have the opportunity to make a direct impact by urging your local leaders to create these programs and make sure no one is left behind when it comes to COVID prevention and care. Imagine the impact you could have. If your local leaders listen, your community could be one of the first to ensure that everyone—no matter their background or financial situation—can access the COVID vaccines and care they need. This is how real change starts. You can lead the way in your community, and together, we can push for the solutions we so desperately need.
It only takes a few minutes to get started. When you start a petition, MoveOn will provide you with the tools and support to amplify your message. Together, we can rally thousands of people behind your cause, and together, we can demand the action needed to keep our communities safe. If you’re ready to make a difference this fall, click here to start your petition today and ensure that COVID support remains accessible for everyone in your community.
This fall, the winds of change are blowing—and you can help lead the charge. Don’t wait for someone else to act. Start a petition, and let’s fight for the health and safety of our communities.
Thank you for all you do.
–Valeria, Aliya, Jensine, Isbah, and the rest of the team
Sources:
1.”The new COVID shot is now available. Here’s what you need to know,” NPR, August 30, 2024
https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/08/22/nx-s1-5082372/updated-covid-vaccines-fda-approved
2.”Coronavirus vaccines, once free, are now pricey for uninsured people,” The Washington Post, September 3, 2024
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2024/09/03/covid-vaccine-bridge-access-program-expires-cdc/
3.”$62M available for state, local health agencies to offer free vaccines,” Route Fifty, September 12, 2024
https://www.route-fifty.com/management/2024/09/62m-available-state-local-health-agencies-offer-free-vaccines/399505/?oref=rf-homepage-river
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