Bartell Drugs launches campaign to encourage childhood immunizations

SEATTLE -- Bartell Drugs is teaming up with the Group Health Foundation on a campaign to promote childhood immunizations.

The Catch Every Kid campaign is asking parents to vaccinate their children, encourage discussions with friends and neighbors about the importance of vaccinating children, and to donate to the foundation so more kids have access to vaccinations.

"The CDC tells us that rates for vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. have decreased by 99 percent since vaccines were introduced," says Kevin Sullivan, chair of the foundation board of directors. "However, here in Washington, nearly one third of children miss one or more recommended vaccinations. We're on a mission to close the gap, to catch every kid and make sure no child falls through."

Bartell Drugs and Cliff Avril, a professional football defensive end, have joined with Group Health to promote awareness around childhood vaccinations and provide an easy way for those who wish to donate so that others might also have the same opportunity to receive vaccinations. With any purchase at Bartell Drugs, consumers can now give an Honorary Safety $2 donation at point of purchase. In addition, Group Health and Bartell Drugs provide convenient and affordable access for all to vaccinations through CareClinics.

"Bartell Drugs has been committed to keeping our customer healthy for more than 125 years. We are honored to be a part of this campaign and protecting the children in our communities," says John Lewis, director of CareClinic Operations. "The convenience and value of the clinics, and the professional medical services available through our Group Health certified health providers, are an excellent way for parents in our community to vaccinate their children. With the optional donation at checkout, they can help vaccinate even more children."