DuPagePads Collaborates with Walgreens to Help Prevent Flu for Homeless
For Immediate Release:
January 15, 2015
Contact:
Carol Simler
President & CEO
630.682.3846 Ext. 2310
csimler@dupagepads.org
Janelle Barcelona
Vice President, Development
630.682.3846, ext.2220
jbarcelona@dupagepads.org
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(Wheaton)—DuPagePads and Walgreens collaborated this December to help prevent the families and individuals who are homeless in the county from catching the flu this winter. Flu shots are covered by the state of Illinois and Medicare. However, Walgreens provided flu shot vouchers free to those without health insurance coverage and unable to afford a flu shot without the voucher. Walgreens pharmacists came out to DuPagePads Client Service Center and provided vouchers for DuPagePads program participants to either redeem on the spot or to be used at any Walgreens.
This service has a great impact on the health of the people served by DuPagePads, as this population often suffers from a wide range of complex health conditions. While the agency provides Interim (Overnight) Housing 365 nights a year in 31 locations throughout the county to provide critical meals and shelter, with some ailments like the flu being contagious, the health of all participants are at risk. DuPagePads Medical Respite Care Program provides short-term housing for those too ill to sleep at the overnight sites, with infections and flu being one major reason.
“We are excited about this collaboration with Walgreens. By providing the flu immunizations, our Interim (Overnight) Housing sites and Client Service Center become safer and less susceptible to this contagious illness.
Once individuals can see past their basic needs, our staff assists people in developing a plan for stable housing. With partnerships in the community like Walgreens, we can come even closer to achieving our mission to end homelessness in our county,” said Carol Simler, DuPagePads’ President & CEO.
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DuPagePads, founded in 1985, is the largest provider of services to those who are homeless in DuPage County. Providing the county’s largest Interim (Overnight) Housing and Supportive Housing Programs, DuPagePads’ solution to ending homelessness is housing, coupled with support services and employment to restore hope and rebuild lives. The administration office is located at 601 West Liberty Drive, Wheaton, IL 60187. Additional information can be obtained by contacting DuPagePads at 630.682.3846 or at www.dupagepads.org.