The Pandemic has not stopped the outreach efforts of many of our ministries, including the College of Our Lady of the Elms caRe vaN; the mobile health care van brainchild of Our Lady of the Angels Province friar, Br. Michael Duffy, OFM Conv. (DNP, ANP-BC), who serves as Associate Dean and Director of Undergrad Prog. of the School of Nursing. 
The caRe vaN has served the community surrounding Elms College since January 13, 2013. Developed as the Capstone for Friar Duffy’s DNP, the caRe vaN provides free healthcare to the homeless and under-served in the Chicopee (MA) area, while allowing pre-licensure students clinical experience. Services include blood pressure checks, blood sugar checks, foot care, first aide and minor wound care. For now, services have had to be adjusted, and are provided on the parking lot outside of the van, so that all can safely practice social distancing. Screenings, vitamins (C and zinc), acetaminophen, as well as the simple comforts of coffee and a snack are still being provided for the most vulneralbe.
“The poor you will have with you always. The last Sunday of each month is particularly hard on the homeless. In addition we have been getting Vitamin C, Zinc and acetaminophen out to our clients. Thank you all for your support.”
For more information or to make a donation to this effort, please email Brother Duffy, at bro_duffy@hotmail.com.
