“It’s taking care of kids who don’t have people right there for them. Well, we’re here for you,” said Beth Mann, board president of FLOC. For over 30 years, this organization has worked tirelessly to bring smiles and the joy of Christmas to children and families across the area. Beth and her husband Doug shared their perspective, stating that when they first started, it was about 30 families and 30 kids. Now, this year, they are serving an astonishing 3,800 kids. It truly means a lot to see the children happy.
The “Christmas for Kids” program is just one of FLOC’s many initiatives. It focuses on providing children served by Montgomery County Children Services, homeless shelters, and those in foster care with the Christmas they have always dreamed of. Items like toys, hats, and coats are given to make their holidays special.
Debbie Lieberman, a county commissioner, emphasized the importance of the program. “The children whose families are really trying to keep them together, and this helps the parents and our case workers. I love that the case workers are able to take the gifts to their homes.” Carolyn Rice, another county commissioner, added that they even ask specifically what the child wants, so it’s not a random gift. When a child opens that gift, they know that Santa heard them.
Commissioners also stressed that the city’s children and future leaders are a top priority. Beth expressed her gratitude to children services for allowing them to continue this great partnership. “I love working with the people here because they are very compassionate and they love their kids. You guys love our children.”
FLOC acknowledges that they could not have achieved this without the community’s help. They have already started planning for next year to continue spreading joy.
The medical mobile units are equipped with an array of essential facilities. Private exam rooms offer a comfortable and private space for patients, ensuring their privacy during consultations. Phlebotomy stations are readily available for blood tests and other medical procedures, providing quick and efficient service. Sinks are installed for proper handwashing and maintaining hygiene standards. Diagnostic equipment is on board, enabling accurate diagnoses right at the scene. Freezers are also included to store medications and samples, ensuring their proper storage and availability.
In emergency and disaster relief situations, these units will prove to be invaluable. As Dean of VCOM Dr. Mark Sanders mentioned, the Lieutenant Governor's Office sponsors certified emergency response training. All second-year students are required to undergo this training and obtain certification. This means that in case of minor emergencies like cuts and lacerations, the college will be able to provide on-site suturing services. By having these mobile units in rural communities, more resources can be brought closer to the people, ensuring timely medical attention in critical situations.
The Ouachita Parish Police Jury's decision to invest in these medical mobile units is a testament to their commitment to the community and the future of healthcare in Northeast Louisiana. It shows their understanding of the need for accessible healthcare services in rural areas and their efforts to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare. These units will not only provide immediate medical assistance but also serve as a stepping stone for the development of healthcare infrastructure in the region.
By making these units available, the police jury is laying the foundation for a more resilient healthcare system. It allows for quicker response times to emergencies and ensures that medical care is not limited to specific locations. This investment will have a lasting impact on the lives of the people in Northeast Louisiana, providing them with the peace of mind that medical help is just a call away.
For more information about VCOM and their medical mobile units, visit their website. Stay updated with the latest developments in healthcare by watching KNOE's latest video. Copyright 2024 KNOE. All rights reserved.