Walk-in Vaccination Clinics Promote Health for Concord's Unhoused

In a powerful collaboration aimed at strengthening community health and accessible healthcare, the Capital Area Public Health Network (CAPHN) and the Concord Coalition to End Homelessness (CCEH) have united to provide vital healthcare services, particularly focusing on the unhoused population.

At the heart of this partnership are walk-in vaccination clinics, igniting a spark of hope amidst the challenges faced by vulnerable communities. The clinics are being held within CCEH’s Resource Center located at 238 N Main St, Concord, NH.

The collaboration between CCEH and CAPHN is an inspiring example of community-driven efforts to improve the health of individuals in New Hampshire. Their shared dedication to community wellbeing and addressing health disparities highlights the positive impact of the partnership.

Granite United Way is proud to support an effort that uplifts New Hampshire residents and prioritizes their health. This collaboration not only benefits the unhoused but uplifts the entire community. 

"By vaccinating unhoused individuals, we protect the broader community," says Kait Gallagher, Director of Development and Communications at CCEH. "It reduces strain on emergency services and prevents disease spread."

These vaccine clinics are especially essential when considering the effects of housing insecurity can have on an individual. Homelessness, especially prolonged, takes a toll on mental and physical health, further weakening immunity.

“Homelessness has extreme negative impacts on a person's health and wellbeing,” Gallagher explains. “Increased stress, poor diet, unsuitable and unstable living situations and untreated mental health can all weaken an immune system.”

Moreover, Damian Santana, Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator at CAPHN explains that individuals experiencing housing insecurities are at a disproportionately greater risk of complications when contracting diseases like the flu or COVD-19. Walk-in vaccination clinics like this promote healthcare accessibility, foster community and inspire hope for a healthier future.

"These clinics provide low-barrier access to vaccinations," says Santana.  "They eliminate transportation and income and insurance verification barriers, ensuring everyone can access vital healthcare services.

The walk-in vaccination clinics serve as more than just healthcare access points; they're safe spaces where individuals feel valued and supported. Navigating healthcare challenges for the unhoused requires compassion and understanding. 

“Having a free vaccine clinic just for unhoused individuals also reinforces their sense of self-worth: we're demonstrating that we care,” explains Gallagher.