Red Bank YMCA Offers COVID Vaccines, Testing

RED BANK, NJ - The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County and the VNA of Central Jersey Community Health Centers (VNACJ CHCs) have recently partnered to provide COVID-19 vaccines to eligible individuals in Monmouth County.

The Moderna vaccine is currently offered at Red Bank Family YMCA. The location serves as the first satellite vaccination site in New Jersey, according to a press release.

“The Red Bank Y has served as a safe testing location since May, and now we are one of several locations in the county where people in the community can come to get their COVID-19 vaccine,” said YMCA of Greater Monmouth County President and CEO Laurie Goganzer. “This is part of what we do, it is the embodiment of our longstanding commitment to the community, especially during the pandemic.”

More than 600 people have already been vaccinated at the Y since the program started in early January. Christopher Rinn, VNA of Central Jersey Community Health Centers’ CEO, says that the site plans to increase the number of appointments and add more staff to meet the high demand.

“We are honored to partner with the YMCA to expand our vaccine capacity. They have been incredible partners and gracious hosts as we work together to serve our Monmouth County residents,” said Rinn.

The vaccine process takes about 30 minutes. Guests check in at the registration desk set up near the gymnasium where their information is verified. They then receive the vaccine in a large vaccination area and remain in observation for about 15 minutes.

“We are so thankful that the Y and VNA are here in our community and that they continue to work together to support residents in Red Bank and across Monmouth County,” said Red Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna.

Currently, vaccines are widely available to those who are in “Phase 1A,” which includes those serving in health care settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials, as well as residents and staff of long-term congregate settings. Police, firefighters and EMS personnel, ages 65 and older and those between the ages of 16-65 with certain health conditions are eligible (see here for the full list). Once vaccine availability expands, vaccination will advance to "Phase 1C," and then "Phase 2," according to the state Department of Health. Read more: Gov. Murphy Extends NJ COVID Emergency, Addresses Vaccine Concern

Local healthcare workers and first responders eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine can register for a vaccination appointment through Monmouth County or Hackensack Meridian Health. Related: Monmouth Co. Launches Online Vaccine Scheduling System, Bayshore Medical Center To Offer COVID Vaccines To Police, EMS

The vaccine is free for those who fit the criteria. The VNACJ CHC registration site does ask for insurance information in case they have to bill the patient. Those without insurance can still receive the vaccine.

Vaccines are offered at the Red Bank Family YMCA by appointment Monday through Friday. Those who are eligible must register in advance at the VNA CHC website at www.vnachc.org.