Vaccinations increase 19% in Racine following incentive program

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The City of Racine Public Health Department is attributing the growth of vaccination rates to the combination of the city and state gift card incentive programs on Wednesday, Sept. 8.

According to officials, between Aug. 18 and Sept. 3, a total of 1,931 individuals received their first dose of the vaccine. Officials say that is a daily average of 114 people. Whereas over the first half of the month, between Aug. 1 and Aug. 17, there was a daily average of 96 first doses. Officials say that is a 19% increase in the daily number of first doses.

The city's gift card program began on Aug. 18 and provides city residents eligible for the vaccine $100 when they become fully vaccinated. Another feature is the "Good Neighbor" incentive where already vaccinated city residents can receive a $50 gift card for each resident they bring in to get vaccinated. Additionally, Gov. Tony Evers extended Wisconsin's $100 gift card incentive through Sept. 19 for all state residents receiving their first dose.

Racine Mayor Cory Mason said the uptick couldn't come at a better time due to the rise in the Delta variant and students returning to classes.

"The best way to protect yourself, your family, and our community is by getting vaccinated. We have been hard at work scheduling mobile clinics throughout the community which are designed to meet people where they are, staffed with trusted community partners like nurses from the Racine Kenosha Black Nurses Association and our Vaccine Champions," Mayor Mason said.

There are several pop-up vaccine clinics throughout the Racine community over the coming weeks. To keep track of where clinics are that qualify for the incentive, clip here for a map and calendar.