Molina Healthcare of New Mexico Supporting Residents Evacuating Due to New Mexico Wildfires
Media Contact: Rhonda Frazier, Rhonda.Frazier@MolinaHealthCare.Com, (562) 980-3849
Ruidoso, N.M., June 20, 2024 – Molina Healthcare of New Mexico (“Molina”) is assisting ongoing wildfire relief efforts for those in and near Ruidoso, New Mexico, and other regions affected by the Salt and South Fork wildfires. Working closely with organizations sheltering evacuating individuals and families, Molina employee volunteers are distributing needed resources donated by Molina, such as food, water, diapers and hygiene wipes, and hosting activities to bring comfort to those at shelter sites in Roswell and Mescalero.
Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham declared a state of emergency in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation where the fires have been concentrated. The fires have burned over 23,000 acres and damaged 1,400 structures. A precautionary advisory was issued by the New Mexico Environment Department for Ruidoso and the surrounding areas, encouraging residents to seek alternative sources of drinking water.
“We are actively monitoring wildfire activity near Ruidoso, New Mexico, and are committed to aiding residents in these communities as they navigate this challenging situation,” said Carolyn Ingram, plan president of Molina Healthcare of New Mexico. “To help provide relief, we are coordinating with partners on the ground to ensure those affected by the wildfires have the resources and support they need.”
Molina has donated and distributed food, drinks, hygiene products, and diapers to residents sheltering at Eastern New Mexico Fairgrounds, New Mexico Military Institute, and Eastern New Mexico University – Roswell, as well as the Mescalero Apache Tribal Community Center – Mescalero. Molina has also sponsored and hosted activities for evacuated residents with the help of its employee volunteers at shelter sites in Roswell, including a game night with free ice cream and arts and crafts.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from community partners like Molina to help care for those affected by this sudden and tragic event,” said Jeneva Martinez, a team leader for Gonzales HOPE Center coordinating with the Encanto Event Center evacuation site in Roswell. “As we continue to understand the full impact of these wildfires, we are grateful for the resources and comfort Molina and its employees are providing for the individuals we are looking after during this difficult time.”
To supplement ongoing relief efforts, Molina is also engaging in the following activities to support the safety and well-being of its members:
- Member outreach and wellness checks to those in affected areas.
- Emergency prescription replacements for all members who lost prescriptions in the wildfire or evacuation. Members are urged to visit MolinaHelpFinder.com to find a pharmacy nearby or call 1-800-237-2767.
- Access to additional emergency medical services, such as food and housing assistance. Members in need of support can visit MolinaHelpFinder.com.
For questions regarding coverage (services, medications, upcoming appointments), members can call 888-295-7651 or the 24/7 Nurse Advice Line at 888-275-8750 (English) or 866-648-3537 (Spanish). Members in urgent need of medical care should go to their nearest emergency room.
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About Molina Healthcare of New Mexico:
Molina Healthcare of New Mexico has been providing government-funded, quality health care since 1998. The Company serves members through Medicare and Health Insurance Marketplace programs throughout New Mexico. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.
