REC explores La Puente programs

La Puente, based in Alamosa, is a network of resources for the San Luis Valley community’s vulnerable population. From the Food Bank Network to PALS Children’s Program, they offer services to help “individuals and families get what they need to stabilize, heal, strengthen, and ultimately thrive.”
Executive Director Lance Cheslock recently guided San Luis Valley REC CEO Eric Eriksen and other staff members on a tour of the various programs. Here’s a quick rundown on the programs explored:
• PALS Children’s Program: A referral based, licensed, after-school and summer program for children 5 to 9 years old who are combating trauma or instability in their home lives.
• ReThreads: This free community resource offers everyone access to clothes, home-goods, toiletries and other necessities. ReThreads is always looking for quality donations of clothing/shoes, kitchen wares, small kitchen appliances, toilet paper/toiletries, diapers, and other household needs.
• Rainbow’s End: This social enterprise business exists to support La Puente with its profits. It helps bolster economic activity, create a sense of community, provide meaningful jobs, and offer workforce development opportunities.
• Food Bank Network: The coalition of 15 food pantries provides nutritious emergency food to those in the Valley, including fresh produce and healthy options for individuals and families.
• VEGI Garden Program: Students and community members work together to learn more about gardening and provide fresh produce for local hunger relief efforts.
• Adelante Family Resource Center: Services include assistance with housing, case management, referrals, improved access to counseling and family advocacy. The center helps individuals and families navigate the many resources available to them.
• Crisis Prevention: This program helps those on the verge of homelessness stay within their homes while also assisting shelter guests on their paths out of homelessness. They provide assistance with rent, mortgage, utility, energy, medical and crisis expenses.
• Street Outreach: Efforts are made to address the needs of those living on the streets and other places that tend to be transitional within the city of Alamosa.
• Emergency Shelter: Founded in 1982, the emergency shelter offers 45 beds, basic needs such as showers and essential hygiene items, nutritious meals and case management services.
For more information on any of La Puente’s programs, call 719-589-5909 or go online to www.lapuentehome.org.