In lieu of this year’s White House Easter Egg Roll, President Joseph Biden and the First Lady gifted the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center (EBNHC) with 800 commemorative Easter Eggs.
In return EBNHC administrators have distributed the eggs to staff and to patients receiving vaccines across its four vaccination sites in Eastie, Chelsea, Revere and the South End.
“Receiving the White House Easter Eggs from President Biden and the First Lady was a bright light against the backdrop of the past year,†said EBNHC president and CEO Manny Lopes. “We distributed the eggs to our hardworking staff who have remained caring and optimistic throughout the pandemic and to our patients receiving the vaccine across our vaccination sites. We would like to thank President Biden and the First Lady for helping us to spread cheer during this spring season.â€
The Easter Eggs came with a special letter from Deputy Assistant to the President and Social Secretary Carlos E. Elizondo to Lopes.
“Dear Mr. Lopes, Greetings from the White House,†the letter reads. “On behalf of the President and the First Lady, it is my pleasure to notify you that East Boston Neighborhood Health Center has been selected as a recipient of the 2021 White House Commemorative Easter Eggs. As you may know, traditionally the wooden Easter Eggs are distributed to children at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn. Due to COVID-19, this year’s Easter Egg Roll has unfortunately been canceled. Nevertheless, in the spirit of the Easter season, the President and First Lady still want to share Easter cheer with Americans across the nation. We hope your site will assist their mission and share these Easter Eggs with frontline workers, volunteers, and members of your staff.â€
The White House encouraged EBNHC to also give any additional eggs to community members who get vaccinated at the Health Center. “Your organization’s efforts are a testament to the hard work that needs to occur in order for our country to reopen safely,†the letter continued. “The health and wellbeing of Americans remain an utmost priority to the President and First Lady, and your efforts and dedication are truly appreciated. On behalf of the President and First Lady, we wish you and your family a safe and Happy Easter.â€