Winn-Dixie grocery stores are now distributing thousands more of the COVID-19 vaccine in five Tampa Bay stores.
Southeastern Grocers, Inc. which includes Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores are supplying an additional 8,100 free Moderna COVID-19 vaccines in 69 store locations. That's on top of the previous distribution of 8,100 vaccines earlier in February.
"In efforts to reach even more underserved communities, the grocer will expand vaccine allocations to 10 additional counties and 26 new store locations, in addition to the 43 stores that have previously administered the vaccines."
SEG will further administer the free Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to eligible recipients in 64 Winn-Dixie, three Harveys Supermarket and two Fresco y Más locations through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program.
It’s all part of President Joe Biden’s first phase of the Federal Pharmacy Program, to help meet the president’s goal of administering 100 million shots in 100 days and expand access to vaccines to more Americans in the coming weeks.
“The goal is to get as many people vaccinated as possible in the quickest method possible. So when we have pharmacists who are well trained and done a great job in the past with vaccinations then they become a viable option for us to utilize,” said Keith Newberry, Winn-Dixie District Manager.
The first distributions started Thursday, Feb. 11, SEG in select Winn-Dixie locations through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program.
The grocery stores will initially offer the free vaccines to healthcare workers, residents, and staff at long-term care facilities and adults ages 65 and older.
Qualified patients can schedule an appointment online, and will receive a text message with an appointment time.
Michael Muscarella who has underlying conditions and previously tested positive for COVID-19 was finally able to get vaccinated today.
“My wife she’s been trying to get our vaccines for a while through different channels. She said the Winn-Dixie app was very easy. Very easy to get and it was very convenient to come here,” said Muscarella.
The vaccines are free, with or without health insurance. Those without insurance will need to present a valid ID.
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