Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — All aboard the Vax Express: the Commonwealth is partnering with the MBTA and local health organizations for a new initiative to keep the state on track to beat Covid-19.
Starting on Wednesday, MBTA travelers can visit select participating stations that will be transforming commuter rail cars into Covid-19 vaccination clinics.
The first stop is at the Blue Hill Avenue stop in Mattapan -- where both the Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine are being offered.
Samantha Joseph, the Head of Community Outreach at CIC Health, said the organization is excited to be facilitating the program.
"[We're] bring[ing] a commuter rail to seven stations across the state over the next five days, to really make sure that every single person has access to the Covid-19 vaccine," Joseph said.
Read More: Harvard Professor Danielle Allen Officially Announces Run For Governor
CIC Health has been responsible for running several mass vaccination sites in the state throughout the pandemic -- including the ones at the Hynes Convention Center and Gillette Stadium.
"It's time in the vaccination campaign for everybody to move to a much more decentralized model of offering small clinics in places that are really convenient for people," Joseph said.
For travelers who opt to get their shot through the Vax Express -- the vaccinations will actually take place on the commuter rail car.
"You'll see a lot signs, you'll see music, food, other people kind of cheering you on," Joseph said. "You'll get a chance to walk onto the train itself and sit down for your vaccination."
Participants will also receive a $25 grocery store gift card, as well as a free meal.
You can find out the dates and locations where the Vax Express will be heading to this week here.
WBZ's James Rojas (@JamesRojasWBZ) reports.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio:Facebook|Twitter|Instagram|iHeartmedia App
Written by Rachel Armany