Salvation Army works to address vaccine hesitancy within Homeless Community

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn (WDEF) – Chattanooga is one of many cities across the country that is helping the homeless community get vaccinated.

But, mistrust towards the vaccine is creating some delay within the process. 

The Salvation Army of the Greater Chattanooga Area said they have partnered with the Chattanooga Community Kitchen to help spread awareness amongst the homeless population. 

Over the last few weeks, the Hamilton County Health Department has started working with the Salvation Army to help bring vaccines to the encampments but residents still remain hesitant. 

“There is a trust issue there. They don’t have a lot of information about it so they are a little bit scared. We try to provide information, answer questions and encourage them that the vaccine is safe and that they will be better off with it,” says Major Mark Smith, Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army say they plan to continue working on building relationships within the homeless community and gaining their trust.