CommonSpirit St. Thomas More Hospital team members assembled about 200 “Blessing Bags” for individuals experiencing homelessness or hardship in Fremont County, according to a March 19 announcement. The project was inspired by a previous larger-scale effort and aims to allow frontline staff to support vulnerable community members through acts of kindness.
The initiative was led by Shannon Haas, director of the hospital’s Surgical Services, Emergency Department and ICU, with support from the hospital’s Executive Leadership Team. The bags included items such as hats, gloves, emergency blankets, socks, toiletries, and healthy snacks.
Clinical teams at St. Thomas More Hospital took time during their staff meetings throughout the month to put together the bags. “Seeing the enthusiasm and dedication of our staff in putting these Blessing Bags together has been incredible,” Haas said. “I knew our team would embrace the opportunity to make a difference right here at home. This project truly embodies our values of service and compassion.”
To distribute the Blessing Bags effectively, the hospital partnered with the Canon City Police Department and the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office. Officers and deputies will keep the bags in their patrol cars so they can give them directly to people experiencing homelessness or those needing immediate assistance.
Fremont County Undersheriff Derek Irvine said, “Partnering with St. Thomas More to help our neighbors was a natural fit. Our deputies interact with so many people in need of basic items. These bags will be a blessing to our neighbors.”
The collaboration between healthcare workers and law enforcement is expected to provide timely support for some of Fremont County’s most vulnerable residents.
