In a recent government meeting, officials discussed strategies to enhance community support services, particularly focusing on food insecurity and outreach to vulnerable populations. The Connect network, which comprises 75 provider agencies, is already assisting many individuals in need, including those experiencing homelessness. A proposal was made to improve public awareness of these services by placing signs in city medians that encourage people to seek help through QR codes linking to the Connect network.

Commissioner Green highlighted the city's efforts to replace no-panhandling signs with messages directing individuals to resources for food and shelter, emphasizing a shift towards more supportive communication. This initiative aims to foster a partnership between the city and community services, making it easier for those in need to access assistance.

The meeting also addressed the pressing issue of child hunger in New Mexico, which ranks eighth in the nation for food insecurity. Officials proposed consolidating various strategies to tackle this issue, focusing on at-risk populations, including children and seniors. The Community Services Department (CSD) plans to add at least three new food providers to the Connect network and increase meal provision for seniors by 15% over the next year.

The proposed strategy aims to create a comprehensive approach to reducing food insecurity across all age groups, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to those most in need. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further develop these strategies and integrate them into the broader community service framework.