RICHMOND – A location is being sought to hold a vaccination clinic in Ray County during May, but those who do not want to wait can go to a clinic next week in Lafayette County.

The Health Care Collaborative of Rural Missouri – in collaboration with the Ray County and Lafayette County health departments – will host a drive-through vaccination clinic in Lexington on April 17.

At the Lexington clinic, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be administered.

Lafayette County Health Care Coalition CEO Tonyann Richard said the coalition and the Ray County Health Department connected to make possible the Lexington clinic and to plan for the clinic in Ray County.

“I’m hoping over in Richmond,” she said. “We’re looking at a couple different locations.”

The Ray County clinic will be held May 14, she said. Assistance from the National Guard and the state vaccination team are anticipated at the Ray County site.

“It’ll likely be an all-day event and we’re still working on a location,” Richard said Wednesday. “It’ll be a drive-through vaccination.”

The holdup regarding the expected Ray County vaccination clinic is where to hold the event, she said.

“I know we need a ton of space,” Richard said.

A week earlier, the Richmond News reported federal coronavirus Rescue Plan funds for Lafayette County Health Care Coalition could benefit Ray Countians in terms of allowing a clinic in the county.

The newspaper filed the report after U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II’s office had revealed the coalition would receive $1,470,625 to “expand COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and treatment for vulnerable populations; deliver preventive and primary health care services to people at higher risk for COVID-19; and expand health centers’ operational capacity.”

Expanded funding meant the center could provide a vaccination clinic for Ray Countians, if asked, Richard said last week.

“We just need to talk to Shelby (Spor), the health director there, to see what their needs are,” she had said. “But, absolutely, if there’s a need, we’ll go. ... If she’s wanting to do an event, we’d be happy to come.”

CLINIC IN LEXINGTON

The clinic is planned to occur from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 17, at the Lexington Swimming Pool, 750 Pool View Drive. To register for the Lexington clinic, go online to https://HCCNetwork.as.me/.

Those who want the vaccine must be 18 or older.

Those with questions about the clinic may call 660-229-5293 or 816-807-5795.