The University of New Mexico Health Sciences has announced the UNM Hospital Community Engagement Department's efforts to assist local organizations in preparing for winter. The community engagement team has donated 500 portable, heat-reflecting wraps to Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless, which will be distributed to vulnerable community members in the area.
According to UNM Health Sciences, the arrival of cooler days in the fall not only signifies a season of change but also a season of uncertainty and danger for many in New Mexico. In response to this, the UNM Hospital Community Engagement Department has taken action to support the homeless community during the colder months.
Alara Lucero, MPH, the development director at Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless, expressed the importance of protecting people experiencing homelessness from the elements. She stated, "We have to protect people against the elements as we go into these colder months. Unfortunately, exposure is one of the leading causes of deaths among homeless populations."
To address this issue, the UNM Hospital Community Engagement Department has provided 500 portable, heat-reflecting wraps to Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless. These wraps will help individuals stay warm and protected during the winter.
In addition to the portable wraps, the UNM Hospital Community Engagement Department has also procured 7,000 emergency blankets this year. Sally Acosta, the UNM Hospital Community Engagement Liaison, mentioned that an event was organized to ensure these blankets reached those in need throughout the metropolitan area.
UNM Health Sciences emphasized their commitment to caring for the community, with Sally Acosta stating, "UNM Hospital takes our responsibility to care for the community to heart. It is not something that should be overlooked."
Azka Naru, PharmD, MPH, who manages the Albuquerque Gateway Center, highlighted the significance of collaboration and UNM's active role in homeless initiatives within the city. She stated, "UNM's active role in homeless initiatives within the city is a testament to their dedication to the well-being of vulnerable populations."
The initiative by the UNM Hospital Community Engagement Department to supply winter essentials to local organizations aiding the homeless community demonstrates their commitment to supporting those in need during the colder months.
