Feb 4

Feb 4 NC State Veteran's Home received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine

At the North Carolina State Veteran’s Home (NCSVH) in Kinston, 72 veterans and 42 employees received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. PruitHealth did not make it mandatory for their staff to take the vaccine but did offer incentives to those who did.

"We wouldn't have the lives we have today without our veterans and the sacrifices they made. Our veterans gave so much of themselves, which is why I personally felt compelled to get the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Bonnie Ard, Kinston’s NCSVH administrator. “It truly is an honor and a privilege to give back to our veterans every day and I think we show them respect by rolling up our sleeves to receive the vaccine."

PruitHealth offered incentives for employees who received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose. They received a Waffle House gift card and were automatically entered into a weekly drawing for electronics such as Apple AirPods, flat-screen TVs, and Amazon Echo speakers. They were also entered into a monthly drawing for cash prizes, which increase as centers complete their vaccine clinics, and range from $1,000 to $10,000.

“I took the vaccine for my safety and the safety of others,” said Gloria Brown, LPN at Kinston’s NCSVH.

PruitHealth is aiding employees in their decision-making about the vaccine through proper education and incentivization and stated they are trusting their employees to do the right thing.

“I took the vaccine to protect our veterans, co-workers, and the people I love,” said Doris Wellington in housekeeping at Kinston’s NCSVH.