Free Flu Shots Draw Big Crowd

Taking advantage of a free flu shot program, nearly 100 people made their way to the Family Services League in Huntington Station Friday for inoculations.

"It's the most thankful clientel I have," said a nurse with Preventa Health administering shots from 9 a.m. until noon. "They are so appreciative. For some people that's the only health care they get all year."

Now in its fifth year in Huntington Station, the program, spread mostly by word of mouth, draws about 100 people per session, according to Family Service League representatives.

"It's fast and they don't have to get an appointment," said Ivan Falcon, a manager with the Work Plus Program at the Family Service League. "They come in, get the shots, then they are out."

By 11 a.m. about 70 people signed up to receive the shots with a steady stream still flowing in.

Lisa, who travels from Connecticut to about nine to 12 locations in Long Island to administer the shots said the majority of those that stop by are day laborers and their family members. She said the overall turnout in 2011 has been lighter than in recent years.

"It's down a little because of the state of the economy," said Lisa. "I think a lot of the day laborers have gone back home."

Hundreds of Latino workers and low-income immigrants get the health boost thanks to a team effort by the attorneys at 1-800-CANTASO and Ferro, Kuba, Mangano, Sklyar, P.C., local business owners and community groups, according to a press release. 

The flu shots are obtained at cost by nurses, with remaining administration fees underwritten by the attorneys, Bethpage Federal Credit Union and community sponsorship.

The shots will be administered at select locations throughout Long Island within the coming weeks, with the support of long-time immigrant advocate Allan B. Ramirez, Reverend of Brookville Reformed Church.

Another session is expected to take place in Huntington Station in the next few weeks. Call xxxx for dates and times.

Flu shots were given on Oct. 7 in Westbury, Brentwood and Medford.