SALISBURY, Md.- Maryland's COVID-19 vaccination rate could rise with a new incentive announced by Governor Larry Hogan, aimed at children.
The Governor plans to have 20 drawings of 50,000 dollars in scholarship money for kids aged 12 to 17.
Danielle Byrd, a parent from Salisbury says it gives her all the more reason to get her kids vaccinated.
"I was already going to get them vaccinated but in terms of scholarships, yeah. Because they need to get off and get some more learning."
Byrd hopes mask wearing won't be required if enough kids get the jab.
Byrd's daughter Ayana says she's on board with the scholarship program. Ayana hopes higher vaccination rates will keep her and her peers safe.
"It could keep all of us protected and healthy, otherwise we could get the COVID.
The overall vaccination rate in most counties on Maryland's Eastern Shore lags behind the state.
As for the youth vaccination rate statewide, it sits at nearly 51 percent receiving at least one dose.
Jennifer Johnson is with the Wicomico County Health Department. Wicomico County is not yet offering Pfizer, the only vaccine approved for children ages 12 to 17.
Johnson says its too early to say whether the scholarship program will increase the vaccination rate for kids.
"I'm not saying that everyones running to get one today but hopefully it will. I know they've done incentives before. We are hoping that helps to increase parents wanting to get their children vaccinated."
"We do need to make sure that that number increases and through the 12 year olds on up," Johnson continued.
The scholarship program "VaxU" will work similar to the state's "VaxCash" lottery drawing.
