The state government and one of the largest grocery stores in the Sunshine State will be teaming up to help set up sites for the COVID-19 vaccination.
On Tuesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Ocala to announce that the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) will partner with Publix Supermarkets on the sites, including launching more than 20 pilot locations.
“Through a partnership with FDEM and FDOH, Publix is receiving 15,000 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to launch a new pilot program at 22 select Publix Supermarkets, beginning Friday, January 8. Appointments can be made beginning Thursday, January 7,” the governor’s office noted.
“As part of our ongoing efforts to increase vaccinations and put Florida’s seniors first, I’m pleased to announce this innovative partnership with Publix,” said DeSantis. “At the end of the day, we are all in this together, and the state of Florida thanks Publix for their willingness to step up and lend their infrastructure to this critical cause.”
“The 22 pilot locations will be open in three counties: three in Citrus County, 11 in Hernando County, and eight in Marion County,” the governor’s office noted. “All vaccinations by Publix at their select locations will be by appointment only. Beginning Thursday, January 7, qualified individuals can make an appointment by visiting www.publix.com/covidvaccine.”
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.