50% reduction in inappropriate Emergency Department visits
A Warm Embrace of Giving: Our Inaugural 5k Walk For a HUG Community Event Surpasses Expectations
Our inaugural 5k Walk For a HUG community event was a resounding success, far surpassing its initial fundraising goal of $15,000 and raising an incredible $46,000, all thanks to the unwavering support of our generous participants, sponsors, community partners and donors. Against a backdrop of perfect weather, the event brought together people from all walks of life for a day filled with warmth, camaraderie, and the shared goal of supporting our CHRISTUS St. Vincent HUGS program.
The 5k Walk For a HUG was more than just a walk—it was a celebration of community and compassion. Before setting off, participants were treated to a lively Zumba warm-up lead by Casandra Delgado and the Capital High School Cheerleading team. Together, they helped get everyone’s hearts pumping and spirits soaring in preparation for the journey ahead. After crossing the finish line, guests and participants alike were treated to live music by the Santa Fe Express Band and the opportunity to shop at local vendor booths, further highlighting the vibrant spirit of our community.
As we extend our heartfelt thank you to all who contributed to the success of this community event, we do so with excitement for the future. With the overwhelming support of our community behind us, we look forward to making the St. Vincent Hospital Foundation Community Walk an annual tradition, spreading awareness, love and joy for years to come.
So until next year, we bid farewell with smiles on our faces and love in our hearts, knowing that together, we can make a difference.
Be sure to browse through the 2024 5k Walk For a HUG Photo Gallery – Photo Credit Sabra LaVaun Photography.
We look forward to seeing you all next year!
What is the HUGS program and who do they serve?
The HUGS program provides intensive, individualized, case management services to high utilizers of the emergency department. This program primarily works with individuals with co-occurring behavioral health and addiction issues, and those who are disproportionately affected by the social determinants of health.
Individual patients are engaged by Master’s level specialists who work with to assess for individual needs and develop care plans that will engage community resources. Many high utilizers have experienced chronic homelessness and behavioral health needs in our small community of Santa Fe for many years. Some have been identified as too difficult or high risk for services and require advocacy and support in order to re-engage with service providers in the community.
HUGS navigators work in collaboration with patients to connect with community resources and therapeutic services to help them access appropriate levels of care, and meet previously unaddressed needs or reach goals that have been historically unsuccessful.
HUGS services are trauma-informed, crisis prevention, therapeutic brief interventions aimed at connecting individuals to long-term community based services.
The HUGS Program: Making a Difference
Walking with Gratitude: Thank You to Our 2024 5k Walk For a HUG Sponsors!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors for the 2024 Walk For a HUG community event. Your generous support played a pivotal role in making this event a resounding success. Thank you for believing in our cause and for joining us in spreading kindness and compassion.
Our 501(c)3 tax ID number is: 85-0282847
