FEBRUARY 23, 1954:
MASS POLIO INOCULATION FOR CHILDREN BEGINS
On this day in 1954, the first mass vaccination of children began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
In the mid-twentieth century, the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis (the predecessor to today’s March of Dimes) pioneered a new approach to philanthropy, raising money a dime at a time from millions of small donors.
The nonprofit enlisted poster children, celebrities, presidents, and other partners in their high-profile campaigns.
Seen here, March of Dimes poster child Linda Brown in a 1949 ad campaign. Flip through American Experience’s photo gallery for more on the polio crusade.
Photo Credit: March of Dimes Foundation
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