WINDOW ROCK, Navajo Nation — Navajo Nation First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren distributed donated coats, blankets, beanies and bags with personal hygiene items to unsheltered relatives in the Gallup area in partnership with Strengthening Nations, a non-profit organization that provides supportive services and advocacy to individuals affected by domestic violence.
Donations were received from across the Navajo Nation and Gallup.
The First Lady received jackets, blankets and beanie donations throughout the prior week. Zane James, tribal liaison with Western Sky Community Care, donated three large totes of drawstring bags consisting of beanies, gloves, hand and foot warmers and fleece blankets. Additional drawstring bags with gators were donated by the Navajo Housing Authority’s Veterans Office. With Strengthening Nations jacket donations, hundreds of winter clothing items have been collected to support the effort.
The distribution of the coats, blankets and hygiene bags took place on Saturday. Strengthening Nations Founder and Director Patricia Nelson, Co-Founder Christian Vasquez and volunteers helped distribute the donations. The Gallup City Police also assisted.
“We are thankful to everyone who donated,” said the First Lady. “We are here, and we know there are systemic problems that need to be addressed, including housing, better behavioral health care and treatment programs, the need for shelters and so much more.”
Some recipients of the winter clothing items shared their stories and expressed gratitude for the many donors who contributed.
“As a nonprofit founded and headquartered here in Gallup, Strengthening Nations has a deep commitment to our community and the health and wellbeing of all its people,” said Nelson. “Partnerships that support our communities and those in need are a cornerstone of our culture and mission, and we are humbled to be a part of this work with the Navajo Nation.”
For more information on Strengthening Nations, visit their website online at https://www.strengtheningnations.org/.
The Office of the First Lady and Strengthening Nations continue to accept donations of winter clothing items in Window Rock and Gallup. The group plans to conduct another distribution in the coming week.
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