Luke Kenny of Patterson, NY, joined over 50 SUNY Oneonta students in an effort to spread the word about the availability of COVID vaccinations to communities across Otsego County. Kenny is studying Computer Science at SUNY Oneonta.
The students, recognizing the need for additional outreach in areas where internet access isn't readily available, rallied together to distribute flyers to those who may need assistance with registering for a vaccine. The flyers share contact information that individuals can use to call for assistance when scheduling an appointment, as well as arrange for a ride to the vaccination site at SUNY Oneonta.
"These students, along with other volunteers, are doing a very important job," said Acting President Dennis Craig. "They are ensuring that all people throughout Otsego County have the knowledge and access to vaccinate themselves against COVID-19."
"We have such a wonderful group of students who did not hesitate to help," said Linda Drake, executive director of SUNY Oneonta's Center for Social Responsibility and Community. "We have over 50 students who want to make a difference in keeping the public safe from COVID."
According to Drake, students are distributing flyers at mobile home parks, laundromats, low-income housing developments, discount stores, and senior residences. Currently, the group has covered Unadilla, Wells Bridge, Otego, Sidney, Maryland, Schenevus, Worcester, Richfield Springs, New Berlin, Edmeston, Portlandville, Cooperstown, Laurens, Morris, Hartwick and Oneonta. They plan to continue their efforts until they reach every community in Otsego County.
SUNY Oneonta is a public, four-year college in Central New York, enrolling about 6,000 students in a wide variety of bachelor's degree programs and several graduate certificate and degree programs. The college is known as both an exemplary residential campus that values inclusion, service and sustainability, and a nurturing community where students grow intellectually, thrive socially and live purposefully. Visit https://suny.oneonta.edu/