Celebrating 30 Years of Vaccines for Children (VFC)

The Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program has profoundly impacted public health by ensuring young families and children have access to life-saving vaccines. The program provides free vaccines to eligible children through a network of health care providers, schools, and community centers.

Since its beginning in 1994, the VFC Program has provided more than 71.5 billion doses of pediatric vaccines to more than 37,000 vaccine providers. Through these efforts, the program has reduced disparities, increased immunization rates, saved countless lives, and helped prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

A measles outbreak in 1989-1991 exposed vaccine inequities. The cost of the vaccine was a primary reason for children going unvaccinated even in families with a regular health care provider.

The outbreak was a catalyst for change, prompting widespread government action. In 1994, the VFC Program was created to cover the cost of vaccines for children whose caregivers may be unable to afford them. The program removes the expense of vaccines as a significant barrier to keeping children on schedule with their recommended vaccinations.

This exhibition showcases the impact of the VFC Program over its 30-year history and its maturation into one of the nation’s most important contributors to health equity.

Want to learn more about the history of the VFC Program? Check out the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program: A Retrospective of the Program’s First 30 Years Story Map!