Hundreds of group home residents, caregivers vaccinated at second clinic in Albany

For the second week in a row, individuals with disabilities, their caregivers and support staff of agencies received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at a clinic held by Center for Disability Services. 330 doses were administered on Wednesday, February 24.

Michael Marino, an individual who receives Center supports, was visibly excited to receive his shot. His mother Michelle shared why it is important for Michael and other individuals with disabilities to receive their dose. 

"These kids in particular, they need the socialization. To keep them unsocialized makes them go backward instead of forward. If they get sick, their immune system doesn't handle illness as well as our system. Between those two factors, these children need the vaccine."

Alexander Virgilio, staff member at Wildwood Programs, shared his reason for receiving his first dose. 

"I don't want to spread the virus to other people and I want to keep working."

John Mazzariello, Senior Director of Practice Operations at Center for Disability Services, takes pride in the work being done at these clinics.

"I am very proud of this team and what we are able accomplish today. There is probably nothing more important we will ever work on than making sure we administer this vaccine to the people who need it the most."

Future clinics will be held in March to administer additional doses of the vaccine to this vulnerable population.

---