HPUMC and partners host vaccination events
June 25, 2021
In an effort to address healthcare disparities in our community, Highland Park United Methodist Church partnered with Dallas County and several of our community partners to bring COVID-19 vaccinations to neighbors who have been most burdened by the pandemic—racial and ethnic minorities, those experiencing homelessness, and those living in poverty.
On June 6, in partnership with CitySquare, we helped distribute vaccinations and meals at Church at the Square to a poverty-stricken community. Rev. Cottrell King did a short Bible study in lieu of a regular worship service and then encouraged congregants who hadn’t already to receive their vaccine.
In total, over 40 individuals received the one-shot vaccine, eliminating the need for these neighbors to schedule a second dose.
“It was truly a success,” said Rev. King. “We look forward to helping others receive this well-needed vaccine.”
A couple of weeks later, on June 19, vaccinations, toiletries, and food were distributed at Christ’s Foundry United Methodist Mission. This was the first event Christ’s Foundry had hosted since the severe winter weather of this past February caused pipes to burst and their entire first floor to flood.
Rev. Amy Spaur, Lead Pastor of Christ’s Foundry, was excited to be back in the building and helping the community. “We’re so grateful for the help of Highland Park and all of our partners who provide volunteer support, prayers, contributions, connections, and resources,” she said.
Many people that Christ’s Foundry serves couldn’t previously take off work to get vaccinated or were fearful of giving out their information. The morning of our event, however, there was a line of people waiting to get vaccinated.
“Having it at a church, a place that’s trusted in the community,” said Rev. Spaur, “offers an opportunity for people who haven’t felt comfortable getting vaccinated yet to come and receive it.”
She finished by saying that events like these reveal the best of our United Methodist connectional system, where partnerships and resources are leveraged for greater kingdom impact.