Golden Harvest Food Bank has partnered with Augusta University Health to help bring the COVID-19 vaccine to underserved communities.

AU Health will be offering vaccinations at several upcoming Mobile Markets, which are the Food Bank’s contactless drive-thru food distributions for families struggling with food insecurity. Individuals will have the option to get vaccinated while waiting in line for food assistance.

“Access to nutritious food and healthcare is challenging for many of our neighbors in outlying counties,” said Amy Breitmann, Executive Director of Golden Harvest Food Bank. “Golden Harvest is proud to collaborate with AU Health and we look forward to working alongside one another in providing access to food and COVID-19 vaccinations in our rural communities.”

The initial approach to COVID-19 vaccinations required individuals to make a reservation, often scheduled online -- which presents a challenge for seniors and those without access to dependable internet.

The evolving approach involves bringing the vaccine to those who need it but are either unable to or uncomfortable with going to larger-scale operations.

“AU Health remains committed to making quality health care available for all in our community, especially through the COVID-19 pandemic” said Katrina Keefer, CEO at Augusta University Health. “The homeless and food insecure are some of the most vulnerable in our area, and we are pleased to work with Golden Harvest Food Bank to break down barriers and to make the COVID-19 vaccine accessible to these populations”

Golden Harvest and AU Health will hold the first Mobile Market food distribution and vaccination clinic on Saturday, May 22nd from 10 AM to 12 PM at Thomson-McDuffie Middle School located at 1191 White Oak Road in Thomson, Ga.

Augusta University Health is also offering vaccinations from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM on Wednesday, May 19th at The Master’s Table Soup Kitchen located at 702 Fenwick Street in downtown Augusta, Ga.