Senior Whole Health Participates in New Bedford Connect

Ben Jackey, Ben.Jackey@MolinaHealthcare.com, 502-377-9484

NEW BEDFORD — On October 25, Senior Whole Health (SWH) by Molina Healthcare took part in New Bedford Connect, an annual event put on by New Bedford Homeless Service Providers Network and Rise Up for Homes. Nurses were available to answer health-related questions. SWH’s Mobile Health Center was on-site to offer attendees a more private space to talk to nurses.

Held at the YMCA, New Bedford Connect brought together a wide variety of community volunteers and resources for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless. Direct services and resources were provided on site, free of charge to all seeking assistance. This included health screenings, haircuts, clothing, meals and transportation. Community members also had the opportunity to obtain a free Massachusetts ID through the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

According to the City of New Bedford’s 2023 “Point In Time” (PIT) report, 373 individuals are experiencing homelessness within the city. Although the count of sheltered (306) reflects the second-lowest number on record, the number of unsheltered (67) continues to increase each year. The number of unaccompanied youth (ages 18-24) experiencing homelessness increased in 2023 by 80% over the previous year.