Joppa Hosts Vaccine Clinic

Joppa hosted a COVID-19 vaccine clinic in partnership with Primary Health Care on June 9 in the Joppa Center parking lot.  

Healthcare professionals were on-site to provide the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The clinic was open to everyone, especially those experiencing homelessness and other barriers to getting the vaccine. 

The event included free lunch with food donated by Fareway and a drawing for a chance to win prizes. 

DART offered free rides to and from the vaccine event, and Joppa provided additional transportation for people who needed assistance. 

“Our goal was to educate people about the vaccine and make it accessible to those experiencing homelessness,” said Emily Osweiler, Chief Operating Officer at Joppa and organizer of the event. “Unsheltered individuals are often forced to prioritize basic needs over their physical and mental health, and that leads to underlying medical conditions that puts them at high risk of becoming seriously ill with COVID.”

“We’re thankful for our partners that helped us offer this vaccine clinic, so we could reach those who have found it difficult to make and travel to an appointment,” Osweiler continued. 

Joppa has offered uninterrupted services during the pandemic and is going on 650+ consecutive weeks of providing outreach for individuals living under bridges, in tents and in vehicles around Des Moines. 

Joppa volunteers have shared critical information about the virus; delivered masks, hand sanitizer, hygiene items and cleaning products; referred homeless individuals for testing and medical help upon symptoms; and helped clients navigate the process to receive their stimulus checks. 

“Homelessness has increased during the pandemic. Our own field survey found one in three homeless individuals in Des Moines are first-time homeless,” said Joe Stevens, Joppa CEO and Cofounder. “Now more than ever, it’s important to help our neighbors in need. We’re doing everything we can to help keep people safe and healthy so they can focus on rebuilding their lives.”