The fund is expected to support efforts of expanding vaccine distributions in hard-hit communities of the state.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has rewarded Maryland $54,627,875 to aid the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines throughout the state, especially those communities which are hit hard by the pandemic.

The award distribution announced on Tuesday is part of a $3 billion funding that CDC has granted to 64 jurisdictions to support "broad-based vaccine distribution, access and administration efforts." This funding is made available by the American Rescue Plan and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act.

The awards are a part of the conjoined effort of CDC and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to increase public education and awareness about the COVID-19 vaccines.

"We are doing everything we can to expand access to vaccinations," said CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH. "Millions of Americans are getting vaccinated every day, but we need to ensure that we are reaching those in the communities hit hardest by this pandemic. This investment will support state and local health departments and community-based organizations as they work on the frontlines to increase vaccine access, acceptance, and uptake."

Seventy-five percent of the total funding will focus on specific programs for increasing vaccine access among the minorities; 60% of the funding will support local health departments, community organizations, and community health centers.

The funds can be used to raise awareness of vaccine acceptance among individuals. Also, local health care workers can be hired to provide necessary information and support to people receiving free vaccinations.

CDC has planned to grant more than $250 million to community-based organizations serving minorities to support vaccinations. It also announced a plan to invest $2.25 billion to address COVID-19 related health differences among high-risk populations. 

To know more about where funds will be distributed, read here. Share your thoughts in the comments.