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Included in federal funding is nearly $1 million toward local COVID-19 vaccination efforts
Congressman Brian Higgins announced $6,466,603 for Western New York’s federally qualified health centers. Included in the awards is $928,681 to ramp up coronavirus vaccination efforts, as the local community is facing the triple threat of increasing cases of RSV, COVID-19 and flu.
“As we enter a season of higher infection rates, this critical funding will support ongoing and expanded services at local health centers,” Higgins said. “We are grateful for the role these centers play in promoting community wellness, and encourage residents to do their part to protect themselves and their families.”
The COVID-19 funding specifically is part of a nationwide effort to increase coronavirus vaccinations, particularly among underserved populations. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently released $350 million nationwide. In Western New York, Neighborhood Health Center will receive $300,550, Community Health Center of Buffalo was awarded $219,181, Jericho Road will receive $266,233, and Evergreen Health was awarded $142,717.
In addition to vaccination funding, Community Health Center of Buffalo, which operates locations in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Cheektowaga and Lockport, will receive $2,698,664 in supplemental federal resources for comprehensive care. And $2,839,278 was awarded to Neighborhood Health Center, for health services at its locations in Buffalo, Hamburg, Blasdell and a mobile unit.
Higgins also reminds residents they are again able to request free coronavirus tests delivered to their home. As part of the Biden administration’s COVID-19 winter preparedness plan, each household in the country is eligible to receive four free at-home tests. Residents visiting the website will be asked to fill out a form that asks for their name and address. To order tests, visit www.covid.gov/tests.
Additional information on treatment, vaccines and community testing sites is available at www.covid.gov.