Thousands turn out to DeKalb vaccine event featuring Chris Tucker, Dottie Peoples

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — The September event drew over 2,500 people to the Mall at Stonecrest to get a $100 gift card, a chance to meet Atlanta Hawks legends Dominique Wilkins and Dikembe Mutombo and get a COVID-19 vaccine. The event in August drew over 1,000.

Today at the mall, county officials say over 2,100 more residents came out to get vaccinated, get the gift card and meet this month’s celebrities--Actor/Comedian Chris Tucker and Gospel Singer Dottie Peoples.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

For Tucker, getting people out and vaccinated is personal because they could be neighbors.

“Being from Decatur, I am personally invested in seeing DeKalb County thrive in every way possible,” Tucker said. “We are at a critical place in our fight against COVID-19 and I’m excited to do my part in advancing the efforts in DeKalb County.”

“When we’re seeing friends and loved ones dying from this virus, it’s no laughing matter,” Tucker said. “COVID-19 has impacted so many parts of our lives so it’s important for all of us to get involved in tackling this global issue.”

TRENDING STORIES:

• Georgia sheriff’s office legally takes over house at source of drug activity in area
• Metro homeowner finds man mauled to death by his dogs on his porch, deputies say
• Merck says pill to treat COVID-19 cuts risk of death, hospitalization by half

Participants were asked to show bring their insurance cards and identification if they have them. The vaccines are free and everyone can chose between the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

People who have completed their Pfizer vaccine series and are eligible can also get a booster shot at the event. County Health Department personnel, Firefighters, Tucker and People will all be there through 1 p.m.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

DeKalb County has pledged to hold events monthly to get unvaccinated residents out and protected against the virus. The next event will be in November, details on when and where have not yet been finalized.

Health care workers across metro face deadline to get vaccinated or fired Healthcare workers vaccine deadline

©2021 Cox Media Group