BY TYLER TAYLOR, M.D.
Los Alamos
As many are aware, Espanola has for decades had a relatively large population of unhoused people. The mental and physical health needs of those struggling folks have rarely been addressed, and many addictions have gone untreated. In turn, this problem has been a huge burden on the town.
Since 2020, the tide has been turning rapidly, though, thanks to the Española Pathways Shelter. Using a tested model, they’ve been providing meals (over 27,000 so far!), overnight beds (about 6600 uses so far!), bathrooms, showers, and health screenings/services. Even transitional housing is now available nearby, for those people ready for more stable futures.
To support this outstanding work at EPS, the Social Justice Committee of the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos has again organized a collection drive. See the list below regarding the most needed items, which may be placed in the boxes at the church‘s front door. The drive will run January 15 through February 28, with collected items being brought inside regularly, and delivered to the shelter every 2–3 weeks.
Note that the shelter gets more men than women, and the need for men’s clothing is usually greater. New or lightly used clothing is gladly accepted, except all donated underwear should be new. Amazingly, the shelter has volunteers who can do small repairs of clothing when needed!
Volunteer opportunities are also available at the Espanola Pathways Shelter on weekdays, during general office hours. To learn more, reach out to their staff at (505) 423-1426.
Members of 3 other local congregations are helping to maximize the donations received: the Los Alamos Jewish Center, the LDS Church in Los Alamos, and the United Church. This multi-faith group sees helping our down-and-out neighbors get on their feet – through such a smart approach – as very worthy. Are there other congregations or individuals who would like to help promote this project? If so, please spread the word soon across your contact lists.
Shelter/Transitional Housing Supplies
• 33 Gallon Trash Bags
• Cases of Water Bottles
• Canned Goods
• Bread and Tortillas
• Cleaning Supplies
• Laundry Detergent
• Boxes of Tissues
• Disinfectant Wipes
Clothing – New or lightly used, except only new underwear please
• Men’s Pants (Sizes Lg, XL, XXL)
• Men’s Shirts (Sizes Lg, XL, XXL)
• Men’s Socks
• Men’s Underwear (Sizes Lg, XL)
• Women’s Pants (Sizes M, Lg)
• Women’s Shirts (Sizes M, Lg, XL)
• Women’s Socks
• Women’s Underwear and Bras (All Sizes)
Monetary Donations can be made on the website: http://www.EspanolaPathwaysShelter.org.