When vaccinations first became available to seniors and first responders in early 2021, local clinics were the point of delivery. They closed up shop when the state and pharmacy-run clinics took over distribution for the bulk of the population, but they are back now as officials are doing all they can to encourage vaccinated residents to get their boosters and, of course, the previously unvaccinated or vaccine-hesitant to begin the series.

“We are offering COVID and flu vaccines in a small, local setting, so you can get in and out in just a few minutes,” said Fire Chief Michael DeMello, who is again coordinating the effort. “About 50 to 75 appointments a day will be available; that works staffing-wise and it allows clients time to ask questions.”

DeMello says the major brands will be on offer, and they will be able to administer to anyone over the age of 12 (Pfizer only for those under 18).

“We will be coordinating with the schools to come up with an option for the under-12 age group,” he said.

Clinics will run from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at the Fire Department headquarters at 4 Annawamscutt Drive, until further notice. Due to the small venue and limited staffing, you are asked to schedule an appointment at vaccinateri.org. Please search by zip code and filter the radius to within 1 mile to be directed to this local opportunity.