The Loop

WestCareFamily,

As we step into February, we’re reminded that this month is all about connection, kindness, and the power of community January was a timetosetgoalsandplanfortheyearahead,butnow,we’refocusing on what really drives our work. Whether it’s the individuals we serve, the staff who show up every day to make a difference, or the partners whosupportourmission,everythingwedoisaboutcomingtogetherto Uplift the Human Spirit and create positive change No matter how big or small, every act of compassion helps build a stronger, more supportivecommunityforthoseinneed

In this issue, we’re highlighting the impact of teamwork and how working together makes a real difference You’ll read about exciting collaborations that are helping bring joy to Veterans on Valentine’s Day and the amazing teamwork of the community to complete the Point-in-Time Count of individuals facing homelessness We’ll also share about the work being done at The Living Room, where our team is promoting HIV prevention and awareness as an act of love Througheducation,testing,andsupportservices,they’reshowingthat takingcareofyourhealthandhelpingothersdothesameisoneofthe mostpowerfulwaystoshowloveandsupportinourcommunity

Meanwhile, our Opioid Education & Naloxone Distribution (OEND) team has been actively engaging with the community, participating in three local events to provide lifesaving training, resources, and Naloxone kits to those at risk Their dedication to harm reduction and overdose prevention is an essential part of our mission to keep our communities safe and informed At WestCare California, we know that no one should have to face challenges alone,andthesestoriesreminduswhyit’ssoimportanttokeepshowingup forthosewhoneedus

As we continue moving forward in 2025, we also want to take a moment to focus on self-care because helping others starts with taking care of ourselves Theworkwedoismeaningful,butitcanalsobechallenging,and making time to recharge is just as important as the services we provide Thank you for being part of the WestCare California family Your support, dedication,andkindnesstrulymakeadifference!

Mary Ann Knoy, Vice President

LOVE SAFELY: PRIORITIZE YOUR HEALTH THIS FEBRUARY Promoting HIV Education, Prevention, and Support

By Ashley Morris, Director of Education and Prevention, and Nou Her, Marketing Manager

True love means protecting yourself and those around you, and that includes knowing your HIV status. HIV is a preventable virus, but many people face barriers that make prevention and care more difficult, such as lack of access to healthcare or information. HIV prevention isn’t just about using condoms or learning about safe sex; it’s about understanding the broader factors that can increase HIV risk. This February, as we celebrate love, let’s focus on love that includes care, protection, ancare

Ruben administering an HIV test. Our HIV/HCV testing is done in a confidential setting. andpreventionforeveryone Lovemeanslookingoutfor the health and well-being of those we care about Whetherit’sthroughregulartesting,openconversations, or making informed choices, we can all play a part in endingthespreadofHIV

“The Living Room is a place where you can feel comfortable to be yourself,” said Ruben Cueva, Outreach Specialist. “It’s a place to discuss everyday issues that are not always widely accepted. The Living Room is a place to belong, a place where you can feel a sense of family and support, a place where you can come to have a hot lunch twice a week, socialize with other members of the community, and know that you have a common bond.”

“Your health is a priority and we're here to help you take the next step, whether it’s testing, education, or support.”

- Delanie Sanchez, Care Coordinator, BEAT

At The Living Room, A Project of WestCare California, we believe that prevention, education, and accesstotesting access to testing is key to protecting our community. The Living Room offers free HIV/HCV testing, education, and prevention. Through HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS), we can also assist with housing needs if you or a family member is living with AIDS and at-risk of or experiencing homelessness. The Living Room also offers in-person support groups, condoms, hot lunches, and more to serve the needs of those living with HIV/AIDS.

Not only do the staff work directly with clients who are affected by HIV, but much of the work we do involves providing our community with HIV prevention education. HIV education and prevention are fundamental in breaking the cycle of stigma, dismantling misconceptions, and promoting compassion over fear. By prioritizing education and prevention, we give individuals the power to make informed decisions decisions about their health and well-being Education removes the barriers of ignorance, and prevention empowers individuals to take control of their futures, ensuringthatthefightagainstHIVisoneweallstandbehindtogether

We encourage everyone to take charge of their sexual health Know your status, use protection,andneverhesitatetoreachoutforsupport Whetheryou'reinneedofHIV testing,substanceuserecoveryresources,orhousingassistance-we'reheretohelp

“Knowing your status,” said Arturo Zuno, Client Service Navigator, “and educating yourselfhelpsreducestigmaaroundHIVandempowersotherstodothesame"

Together, we can create a healthier, safer, and more supportive community for everyone For more information about The Living Room, a Project of WestCare California, and our services, contact us at TheLivingRoom@westcare.com or 559-486-1469

We are a place to belong

Wings Advocacy Fresno Grateful for The Rotary Club of Fresno’s Support on Delivery Day

By Brittany Sosa, Community Relations Manager

OnJanuary29,wewerethrilledtohavemembersofTheRotaryClubofFresnojoin us for a special delivery day Their generous support made a significant impact as they helped us deliver and set up furniture and beds directly in the homes of our clients It was a heartwarming experience for everyone involved, as the Rotarians not only provided hands-on assistance but also had the opportunity to meet some of the individuals they were helping As one member said, “It’s always a humbling experience”

Thanks to their hard work and dedication, we completed our deliveries in record time! We are incredibly grateful for the continued financial support and partnership we receive from the Rotary Club of Fresno each year Their commitment to our mission and their longstanding dedication as a funder truly makes a difference in the lives of our clients Thank you, Rotary Club of Fresno, for being such an important part of our worktoaffirmeveryhumanbeing’srighttoshelterandUplifttheHumanSpirit!

Thank You for Supporting "Valentines for Vets"

By Ciana Torres, Director of Media and Public Relations

WestCare California proudly participated in the Valentines for Vets initiative with the office of Congressman Jim Costa This heartfelt initiative shows appreciation to the bravepersonswhohaveservedourcountry Thankstothededicationofourstaffand program participants, we contributed over 60 handmade Valentine’s Day cards filled withgratitudeandencouragement

Our participation included multiple programs, such as SJVV HomeFront GPD, the Women’sUnitatMLKResidential,theBelmontHealth&WellnessCenter,andthe MLK Children’s Learning Center Many of our team members went above and beyond, involving their families, friends, and even places of worship - special thanks gotoPilgrimArmenianCongregationalChurchfortheirsupport

This initiative was a powerful reminder of the importance of community partnerships and advocacy in everything we do Thank you to everyone who took part in making thiseffortasuccess!

OUR OEND TEAM OUT IN THE COMMUNITY!

By Elisha Simpson-Sanchez, Program Coordinator, OEND

The Opioid Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) team recently hosted a dynamic training session for Kings View staff, focused on understanding the effects of opioids and the lifesaving potential of Naloxone. Through interactive activities, participants learned to recognize overdose signs and practiced using Naloxone in mock scenarios. The training also covered key techniques for Naloxone storage, use, and safe disposal. This session was a crucial step in empowering our community partners and working together to reduce opioid overdose deaths in Fresno County.

Both the OEND program and The Living Room, A Project of WestCare California, are vital parts of our education and prevention efforts These programs were front and center at the Why Not Wednesday street fair, offering valuable resources andinformationtothepublic

Bybeingpresentatthisvibrantcommunityevent,we continue to engage with local residents, raise awareness, and provide critical support to those in need

The power of outreach is truly realized when we meet individualsexactlywheretheyare DevinSandovaland Richard Lopez, OEND outreach specialists, are prime examplesofthisinaction

Whileengagingwithpeopleunderabridge,theyprovide essential items such as Naloxone, Fentanyl test strips, hygiene kits, sexual health kits, and comforting hot coffeeandsoup.

This approach not only addresses immediate physical needs, but also nurtures emotional well-being, demonstrating that effective outreach goes beyond resources - it’s about showing compassion and building community

2025 FRESNO MADERA PIT COUNT

ThankyoutoallofourWestCarestaffwhoparticipatedinthe2025FresnoMaderaHomelessPoint-In-TimeCount,alsoknownasthePITCount Forthree days,WestCareteams,alongsidecommunitypartners,joinedtheFresnoMaderaContinuumofCare(FMCoC)tosurveyandcountinFresnoandMadera Counties,gatheringvaluabledatatohelpshapethefutureofhousingservicesforthoseexperiencinghomelessness

AspecialshoutoutgoestoourWestCareteaminvolvedinthePITCountCommittee,wholedthechargeinvolunteermanagement,training,marketing,andour mediaandpublicrelationsefforts:BetoRamirez,BrittanySosa,CianaTorres,MaryAnnKnoy,NouHer,RobertMarquez,andStephaniePerez