Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 in our communities, the State of Michigan seeks to vaccinate at least 70% of the eligible population to mitigate the spread of the virus. Although efforts have been underway to vaccinate the population, barriers to access and vaccine hesitancy have generated a clear unmet need for localized outreach, communication, and coordination to ensure equitable vaccine uptake occurs in Michigan.

In response to these challenges, Michigan Association of United Ways and the Michigan Nonprofit Association are launching a hub-model effort – Vaccinate the Great Lakes State - to encourage vaccination uptake. United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR) will serve as one of the identified hubs in Michigan to support unique efforts for the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region. UWBCKR is intent on reaching communities that face barriers to accessing vaccines and have a history of vaccine hesitancy due to continued marginalization by the medical community, through the support of fieldwork and engagement by nonprofit organizations.

Note: To combat vaccine hesitancy, grantees will participate in vaccine hesitancy training provided by United Way.