By HEAL Staff Writer Jessica Martinez
The Faith Community Health Ministry has been provided by the Community United Methodist Church for the last 17 years. The group, which is coordinated by a Registered Nurse and served by volunteers, serves Ruidoso and the surrounding area through health promotion, education programs, health care, and spiritual and emotional support.
“We currently have 15 shut-ins whom we contact weekly by phone and visit in the home, if they choose,” explained FCHM member, Julie Lucas. “We also visit in the Mescalero Care Center and Goodlife Care Center.”
In addition to these services, the group has reached out to organizations like Help End Abuse for Life, Inc. and The Nest, Lincoln County’s first and only domestic violence shelter.
The ladies of the Faith Community Health Ministry donated hand-crocheted prayer shawls, health kits, and blankets to the shelter.
“Our intent was to highlight The Nest with a small caption of our ministry,” said Lucas. “Our donations were a love gift.”
Donations like these are warmly welcomed at the domestic violence shelter.
“Since many of our residents are escaping bad situations when they enter our shelter, the opportunity to receive a hand-made shawl, health kit, and blanket is invaluable,” said Britta Magnusson, Nest Shelter Supervisor. “We are so grateful for the thoughtfulness and generosity of our community members.”
The Faith Community Health Ministry has a nurse coordinator available on Thursday mornings from 9AM to 12PM. To volunteer with the ministry, contact them at (575) 257-4170. Contributions to the group can be made to The Faith Community Health Ministry, in care of Ruidoso CUMC, 220 Junction Road, Ruidoso, NM 88345.
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, contact HEAL and The Nest’s toll-free 24/7 hotline at (866) 378-6378. Visit their website at www.helpendabuseforlife.