Tulsa Girl Recognized As The 100,000th Child Immunized In Caring Van

The Oklahoma Caring Foundation celebrated a milestone in its Caring Van program Monday, recognizing the 100,000th child to be immunized aboard the vans since the program began in 1999.

"Our program targets children in low-income and under served areas, so it's especially exciting to know that these 100,000 children represent kids who may not have otherwise received immunizations," said M. Ted Haynes, Chairman of the Oklahoma Caring Foundation.

Haynes says the program is designed to help Oklahoma children receive the immunizations they need to stay healthy.

The five Caring Vans are mobile units staffed by registered nurses who administer vaccinations to children at no cost at licensed child care centers, licensed child care homes, schools, community events and where the need is greatest.

"The programs' purpose is to fill in the gaps in preventative healthcare by eliminating barriers like transportation and cost," Haynes said.

At Monday's event, 4-year-old Chiara Roberts was recognized as the 100,000th child to be immunized.

Monday's event was held at Emergency Infant Services at 222 South Houston in Tulsa.