Sonia Y. Thomas of Worcester runs the showers at the shelter and is a recovery coach.
Before agreeing to take the vaccine, Thomas said she had her concerns about the side effects before being set at ease by an explanation of the vaccine provided by Dr. Matilde Castiel, the city's commissioner of health and human services.
"I wanted to hear more about the side effects and I wanted to be reassured," Thomas said.
After getting the vaccine, Thomas said she felt relieved and noticed her anxiety level lowering. She encouraged members of the Black community, like herself, and those in recovery, to consider those they care about when deciding whether to get the vaccine.