The Village of Niles and the Niles Senior Center are working with the senior community of Niles to ensure individuals are able to register for COVID-19 vaccination. Individuals age 65 and over are currently eligible to be vaccinated under phase 1b as determined by the State of Illinois. The Cook County Department of Public Health has an online portal and telephone hotline to sign up for vaccine updates and information about scheduling an appointment. The Niles Senior Center is helping individuals age 65 and older register with the vaccine appointment system, and has invited seniors to call in for assistance from Senior Center staff during business hours. Further, the Niles Senior Center is proactively making phone calls to its known members without internet to make sure they are able to successfully navigate the registration process.
Niles continues to be a leader in providing service to the senior population. Village of Niles Mayor Andrew Przybylo – who spearheaded the initiative to provide additional assistance to seniors – stated, “People look to their Village government for guidance during uncertain times, and while the logistics and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine are outside of its purview, the Village of Niles is stepping up to provide registration assistance and reassurance to those who may need it most.”
Niles Trustee and Human Services Committee Chairman John Jekot added, “This is a difficult time for everyone, and we know it’s the right thing to do to help however we can. I know for a lot of residents, having someone to talk to and get help from will go a long way towards staying positive and hopeful – and most importantly, getting the resources they need.”
The Village reminds the public that the Covid-19 vaccination effort is led by the Cook County Department of Public Health, and the Village of Niles government and the Niles Senior Center cannot administer COVID-19 vaccines. Further, the Village reminds all members of the public that currently vaccine demand greatly outweighs supply. It may take weeks for eligible residents to make an appointment. Even though the unavailability of appointments is frustrating, patience is encouraged as public health officials work towards providing the vaccine to everyone who wants to receive it.
The Village’s website will be kept up to date with the latest information about available services at www.vniles.com/covid-19.
About the Niles Senior Center: The Niles Senior Center, a department of the Village of Niles municipal government, is the community focal point for older adults offering a variety of recreational, educational and wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, services including Medicare Counseling, Meals on Wheels and Medical Lending Closet, and information and referral. Programs and services are available both in person and virtually. ■
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