Holy mackinaw: Hamilton Tiger-Cats offer game tickets, prizes at mobile COVID-19 vaccine clinic

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Published August 19, 2021 at 1:16 pm

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Hamilton Public Health Services have teamed up with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in an effort to get more Hamiltonians vaccinated against COVID-19.

On Thursday (Aug. 19), the organizations announced that mobile vaccination clinics will be held during Tiger-Cats’ practices at Tim Hortons Field on August 23 and 24 (10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.), as well as August 25 (10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.).

“We’re proud to partner with Hamilton Public Health Services and provide a unique setting and experience for those in our community who haven’t yet been vaccinated to do their part in the fight against COVID-19,” said Matt Afinec, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Tiger-Cats in a press release.

“Maximizing vaccination rates in our community is the path back to full-capacity crowds and the energy they bring, which is a tremendously important element for our players on game day and our organization as a whole.”

Hamiltonians will be able to come out, get their vaccination and watch the practices — which are closed to the public in 2021 — and no appointment is necessary.

Attendees will also receive a voucher for two tickets to any 2021 Forge FC regular-season home game, as well as be automatically entered into a draw to win tickets to Tiger-Cats home games and autographed Ticats and Forge FC jerseys.

Hamilton’s vaccination rates have been lagging in recent days with 70 per cent of those aged 12 and older having been fully vaccinated (the goal is to have 75 per cent coverage). Earlier this week, Hamilton became the last major Ontario city to reach 70 per cent coverage.

Hamilton’s lowest vaccination rate by adult age group is those between 25 and 29-years-old; 65.8 per cent have received at least one dose and only 55.5 per cent are fully vaccinated.

“Our entire community continues to make a big push to increase vaccination rates to ensure we can have the highest level of protection possible against COVID-19 heading into the fall,” said Mayor of Hamilton, Fred Eisenberger in the release.

“Achieving high levels of vaccination is the best way to ensure Hamiltonians can protect who we love and get back to shouting Oskee Wee Wee in the stands with all of our friends at Tim Hortons Field.”

On Wednesday, the City of Hamilton announced that it would be hosting a late-night COVID-19 vaccine clinic this weekend where residents can receive a dose and then enjoy music, prizes, food and drink, and a free public skate with a friend.

— with a file from Anthony Urciuoli

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