Four hard-hit Metro Detroit areas to get first vaccine appointments at Ford Field

Ford Field is becoming one of 20 mass vaccination sites in the country. Detroit was a COVID hot spot in 2020, but will now help protect thousands against coronavirus. Michigan residents can register for the COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Ford Field with the site set to officially open on March 24.

There is no cost for the vaccine. Insurance is not needed and parking will be provided.

"Because the State of Michigan is using the CDC's vulnerability index, prioritizing people who are getting vaccinated this site is for people who have had barriers and challenges and really been hit hard during the pandemic. People of color, people who are low income or low wealth, people who are fighting persistent poverty," said Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist.

The current State of Michigan guidelines for testing are: Residents who are currently eligible -- 50+ with preexisting conditions On March 22, residents who are 16+ with certain medical conditions can be vaccinated and on April 5, all adults become eligible for vaccination.

Ford Field will be offering the Pfizer vaccine.

How to register for a vaccine

To register for a vaccine at Ford Field, you can go online at clinic.meijer.com/register/CL2021, or text End COVID to 75049. You can also call the COVID-19 hotline at 888-535-6136 (press 1).

Residents who don't have access to the internet or need assistance can use the MDHHS COVID-19 Hotline to register. Call Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday or Sunday from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. The call center is expected to have long wait times.

The vaccine will be offered at no cost and insurance is not required. Free parking will be available at the vaccination site.