UT Tyler Office of Marketing and Communications

Health Fair for the Homeless: Hiway 80 Rescue Mission, UT Tyler Nursing Program Organize Event

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February 18, 2016

Media Contact:  Hannah Buchanan
Editor/Writer–Strategic Communications & Media Relations
Marketing and Communications
The University of Texas at Tyler
903.539.7196 (cell)

Editor's Note: This press release is presented on behalf of Hiway 80 Rescue Mission.

Thanks to four amazing RN students with University of Texas Tyler Nursing Program, today [Feb. 18] was the first ever "Health Fair for the Homeless" at Gateway to Hope operated by Hiway 80 Rescue Mission. The event offers an unprecedented opportunity for people who do not regularly access health care to learn about prevention. They will learn how to access screenings to identify personal healthcare needs. It puts a focus on health and wellness that they may have never experienced.

"Being able to serve the homeless has been a great experience for me," said Zachary Johnson, University of Texas Tyler Nursing Student. "I have learned that we are all right there; that anyone of us could become homeless."
A remarkable community effort has brought together many community organizations, including: Andrews Center, Net Health, The Lighthouse, Tyler Lions Club, UT Tyler Health Northeast, and University of Texas Tyler Nursing. The event includes free Healthcare Screening Information on: blood pressure, blood sugar, eye exams, dental cleaning services, mammogram screening, colonoscopies, pap smears, vaccinations and prescriptions.

Many healthcare organizations have united to make this day possible, but community support makes the day even more special. Kyndl Williams, University of Texas Tyler Nursing Student, said: "It has been incredible to see the community support come together --- from organizations wanting to be involved in sharing what they have to offer --- to local businesses providing donated items that we could distribute to those in need."

"We are so thankful to University of Texas Tyler School of Nursing. Their RN students have made today possible," said Gary Crim, Director in Tyler. "Being able to connect our guests with healthcare screenings, information, and ways to prevent future issues, is incredibly valuable because it is something guests often go without. Today was a unique opportunity to not only share healthcare information and services, but to also truly show our guests that this community cares for them."

The Highway 80 Rescue Mission is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Christian ministry serving the homeless and hurting of Longview-Tyler with food, clothing, lodging, spiritual direction and rehabilitation programs. The Mission's work is supported through the donations of the generous people of the Northeast Texas area.