After the initiative of a Washington company earlier this year, another state will see its very own “joints for jabs” scheme to lure those who are yet to receive coronavirus vaccine.
High Times reports that a one-day-only pop-up vaccine clinic has been set up by organisers in Long Beach, California to try and help those who haven’t got vaccinated over the last seven-eight months.
According to a press release, Long Beach residents age 21+ who get vaccinated at the July 24 pop-up clinic in Houghton Park will receive a token redeemable for one pre-roll to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations and safe cannabis use during the Summer months.
James Suazo, Executive Director with Long Beach Forward, said: “We all want to have a safe summer and enjoy one another’s company even as the pandemic continues on and recreation opens up.
“Cannabis is part of our Long Beach culture and to safely share a joint without contributing to the spread of COVID-19, we must all do our part to get vaccinated.
“With the delta variant becoming the dominant COVID-19 strain in Los Angeles County, we want our unvaccinated neighbours to catch a free cannabis strain instead so we can protect each other.”
A spokesperson from Long Beach Collective Association (LBCA) added: “The LBCA supports public health efforts. Cannabis products provide safe access to alternative medicine.
“Supporting vaccination efforts for our communities fall in line with LBCA stance on promoting healthy living and prevention. The LBCA is excited to be a part of this community campaign.
“The July 24th Jabs for Joints clinic would not be possible without LBCA Members, Cannafame’s Hesh pre-rolls, VRX Labs, and Flight on Cherry dispensary, Thank you.”
As of 6 July, 56.3% of all Long Beach residents have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, leaving a sizable gap towards the collective goal of herd immunity.
Similar to trends across California, Long Beach residents ages 18-34 remain as a significant portion of the population who are still unvaccinated, with only 51.1% being vaccinated, according to the City of Long Beach COVID-19 Digital Dashboard.
