Norfolk, Virginia — As vaccination efforts continue at the Community Vaccination Center located at the Military Circle Mall, FEMA reassures residents that immigration status is not a factor to receive the lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine. In accordance with Department of Homeland Security directives, FEMA and other federal partners fully support equal access to the vaccines and vaccine distribution sites for undocumented immigrants.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection will not conduct enforcement operations at or near vaccine distribution sites or clinics. Hampton Roads residents with an appointment will receive their immunization in a space that is safe and open to all, regardless of their immigration status.
“Our priority, together with the Commonwealth of Virginia, is ensuring access and equity in providing essential vaccines to reach the whole community and those who need it the most. We are focused on getting as many Virginians vaccinated as we can, and immigration status is not a limiting factor,” said Acting FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator Janice Barlow.
Working closely with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Virginia Department of Health, the goal is to vaccinate 3,000 residents a day. The Community Center is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Those interested in receiving their FREE COVID-19 vaccine can register online at vaccinate.virginia.gov or they may call 1-877-829-4682.
For more on the ongoing vaccination efforts in Virginia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4512 or vaemergency.gov.