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Saint Francis and Mainline Pharmacy Partner to Top 18,000 Vaccine Doses Since January

Loretto, PA (04/01/2021) — As early adopters in supporting vaccination efforts, Saint Francis University and Mainline Pharmacy have worked in partnership to become the area's largest vaccination distribution site.

As of this past Saturday, March 27, the Saint Francis University-based clinics have vaccinated more than 18,000 Phase 1A individuals over the course of 17 clinic dates. Community clinics initially began in January with approximately 50 volunteers donating nearly 475 hours each distribution date.

Saint Francis University and Mainline Pharmacy continuously have identified ways to maximize their effort. Clinics have grown and so has the desire to make an impact. Now, each clinic that the partners coordinate involves more than150 volunteer shifts - equating to more than 1,300 volunteer hours. Clinics provide an average of 1,200 dosages in the arms of the Phase 1A individuals.

Junior Alexis Eckenrode has volunteered for several clinics thus far. "I really enjoy interacting with community members and being a part of such an important effort. I have been able to work alongside other SFU community members that I might not otherwise have had the chance to meet. As a student pursuing Education, I have learned so much about what it means to communicate with respect. I feel the volunteer experience will help me become a better teacher."

Since January, Mainline Pharmacy and Saint Francis University have found success in hosting clinics due to several factors. Saint Francis University is uniquely positioned to support the effort due to facility size, volunteer base, and a large percentage of enrolled health science students. Campus employees, students, and even SFU extended family members support the clinics by volunteering their time. Volunteer roles range from inoculation to recording vaccine doses in the PA Department of Health database. Every role proves critical to the effort.

"As an institution, Saint Francis University could not be more proud to deliver hope and fulfill an important role for our community in combating the pandemic" said Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, University President. "We are heartened by the lessons learned in serving as critical volunteers. As individuals, and collectively as an institution, we are eager to continue fulfilling a critical role for our neighbors and our students, faculty and staff have enjoyed serving with heart."

Saint Francis University and Mainline Pharmacy plan to continue coordinating efforts to host COVID-19 vaccine efforts for the foreseeable future. Distribution will adhere to the Pennsylvania Department of Health phased vaccination rollout plan. All appointments for vaccinations can be made at www.mainlinepharmacy.com.

Saint Francis University (www.francis.edu) in Loretto, PA is the oldest Catholic-Franciscan college in the United States. Its mission is to help students grow into compassionate, successful professionals through a culture of generosity, respect, discovery and joy.

Media Attachments

Mandy Lasinsky , Saint Francis University Clinical Services Coordinator, prepares one of the Covid-19 vaccine doses for distribution at the Saint Francis University and Mainline Pharmacy vaccination clinics.

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