State lawmakers to host Balch Springs vaccination event Saturday with music and a raffle

Balch Springs residents can get a COVID-19 vaccination Saturday at the Together We Vaccinate event, hosted by state Reps. Toni Rose and Rhetta Bowers. The clinic is part of Project Unity’s efforts to vaccinate a community that falls behind others in Dallas County in vaccination rates.

As of Oct. 15, 69% of Balch Springs residents had at least one shot of a COVID vaccine, while 52% are fully vaccinated, one of the lowest rates in the county, according to county data.

The free clinic will offer first COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots to the community, along with music, raffle giveaways and other activities. Residents can get the Pfizer vaccine, and a limited number of Johnson & Johnson shots will be available, according to a press release.

Reps. Bowers and Rose — who represent areas of Sunnyvale, Rowlett, Garland, Seagoville, Oak Cliff, Pleasant Grove, Balch Springs and Mesquite — will be at the event to meet and encourage the community. Andrews Distributing will host a raffle for those who get vaccinated to win a free BBQ grill or a bicycle.

Project Unity — a faith-based collaborative — began the vaccination program to address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on people of color, a press release said.

Event planners encourage individuals to register beforehand, be 18 years or older, and bring a valid ID and copy of their registration. Children ages 12 to 17 may receive a vaccine but must be accompanied by a legal parent or guardian and bring proof of the child’s age.

Pastor Richie Butler, founder of Project Unity and Senior Pastor of St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, will be in attendance from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Details

Saturday, October 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Prosperity Bank, 3636 Shepherd Ln., Balch Springs, TX 75180