NJ Health Department Announces New Jersey Hot Shots for Tots Immunization Campaign Awardees

August 8, 2026 - 00:18

The New Jersey Department of Health has announced the awardees for its latest Hot Shots for Tots immunization campaign, a program designed to boost vaccination rates among young children across the state. The initiative recognizes local health departments and community partners who have shown exceptional effort in promoting childhood immunizations and increasing access to vaccines.

This year's honorees were selected based on their creative outreach strategies, their success in raising vaccination coverage in underserved areas, and their work to combat misinformation about vaccines. Officials say the campaign is especially important now, as routine childhood vaccination rates have not fully rebounded to pre-pandemic levels in some communities.

The awarded organizations will receive funding to support their ongoing immunization efforts, including hosting clinics, sending reminders to parents, and partnering with schools and childcare centers. The Health Department emphasized that these local programs are critical for protecting not just individual children, but also the broader community through herd immunity.

Parents are encouraged to check with their pediatrician or local health clinic to ensure their children are up to date on all recommended shots. The department also reminded residents that vaccines are safe, thoroughly tested, and remain the most effective way to prevent serious illnesses like measles, whooping cough, and chickenpox.

A full list of the awardees is available on the department's website, along with resources for finding free or low-cost vaccination options. The department plans to continue the campaign next year with a renewed focus on reaching families in rural and urban areas where access to healthcare can be limited.