FREDERICK, Md. – Thanks to an increased supply of vaccine, people can now schedule vaccination appointments directly from the Frederick County website, FrederickCountyMD.gov/CovidVaccine. In addition, clinics are now open for walk-ins for the first time. When County Executive Jan Gardner announced the changes today, she encouraged all adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, to get vaccinated.
“Vaccines work and they are how we will win the battle against the virus,” Executive Gardner said. “If you are already vaccinated, please share your experience with others. If you have not yet been vaccinated, now is the time. Taking half an hour now can add years to your life. We will only win the war against the virus when most people are vaccinated.”
Approximately 62% of adults in Frederick County have received at least one dose of vaccine to date, and 86% of residents ages 65 and older have begun the process. Vaccines are free. Insurance is not required.
Since the pandemic began, there have been 19,411 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Frederick County residents, and 311 have died. The County’s positivity rate stood at 3.52%, and its seven-day average case rate is 10.79 for every 100,000 residents.
To support community businesses that have suffered as a result of the pandemic, Executive Gardner announced $4.3 million in aid through four new grant programs.
- Agriculture Technology grants totaling $21,000. Application is by invitation only.
- Hospitality and Bed and Breakfast Providers grants totaling $398,873. Applications will be accepted between April 30 and May 7.
- Restaurants and Other Eating Establishments grants totaling $877,322. Applications will be accepted between May 20 and May 26.
- Small Business grants totaling $3 million. Applications will be accepted between June 17 and June 25. To qualify, a for-profit businesses must have fewer than 50 employees; have been in operation prior to Oct. 1, 2020; have a physical location in Frederick County; and be in good standing with both the State and County.
Applications will be available at FrederickCountyMD.gov/BusinessGrants. Questions about any of the grant programs can be directed to the County’s Office of Economic Development at OED@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
###