Let’s Stay Healthy Together: A June 2025 Message from the Lincoln County Community Health Council

Supporting health care and well-being for residents in Lincoln County and Mescalero

Hello, neighbors! This June, the Lincoln County Community Health Council is excited to share some wonderful opportunities to promote health and wellness right here in our community. Together, we’re working to ensure every resident has the care, support, and resources they need to thrive.

Let’s Talk About Mental & Physical Health

Physical health is the foundation of a vibrant life, and we’re here to encourage you to stay active and engaged this summer. Lincoln County offers a host of free or low-cost activities for residents of all ages to enjoy. From hiking scenic trails to exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Lincoln National Forest, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature and boost your well-being.

This month, Ruidoso Parks and Recreation is offering  Qi Gong classes on Mondays & Wednesdays from 8:30 – 9:30 am, at the Bridge Room in the Ruidoso Community Center. Cost is only $1 per class.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and our Lincoln County Community Health and Wellness Guide offers many connections to help you meet the right provider when needed. In addition to our regional guide, this 2025 Health Guide for New Mexico is a valuable resource to keep bookmarked.

Another resource with a comprehensive directory, created by the New Mexico Alliance of Health Councils, is a digital database of health-related services and providers.

Summertime is a great season to also try activities like reading literature, using art therapy, and simply practicing mindfulness. Let’s take care of our minds together!

Standing Together Against Substance Abuse

Our community is stronger when we tackle tough issues together. That’s why we’re expanding our efforts to spread the word about the #988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. New rehabilitation programs through the NM Health Department, located at the Ruidoso Public Health Office, are available and the right help is eager to assist those ready to take steps toward recovery. Teens and young adults in New Mexico face many challenges and New Mexico Crisis Line is on standby to listen and connect with support to help find a way forward.

Addressing Food Insecurities This Summer

We know that summer can be a challenging time for families facing food insecurities, especially with children out of school. That’s why this summer, the SUN Bucks Program is offering financial support to help ensure no child goes hungry. Eligible families in Lincoln County can receive $120 per child to assist with grocery costs during the summer months.

To help ease food shortage, the Mescalero Food Pantry will offer food distribution on June 5, 11 am to 1 pm. This is open to everyone residing in Lincoln County and Mescalero.

In addition to the SUN Bucks Program and food pantry distribution day, the Food 4 Kids Program Golf Tournament challenges golf enthusiasts to play in the tournament to be held June 29 on the pristine course of the Inn of the Mountain Gods in Mescalero, NM. This tournament raises funds for the Lincoln County Food 4 Kids Backpack Program. Your participation, whether as a player, sponsor, or volunteer, will make a meaningful impact on the lives of local families struggling with food insecurity. Let’s come together for a day of fun, camaraderie, and generosity to build a stronger, healthier community.

We also reach out to the helpers. You know who you are!

The New Mexico Grown Coalition presents the Golden Chile Awards – to recognize and celebrate the unwavering commitment of leaders advancing New Mexico Grown Coalition efforts across the state. If you know of someone who assists in any of these various categories: Food Producer, Food Hub, Preschool, K-12, or Senior Center, make sure their applications are submitted by June 30th. More information is available, contact Gabriel Gaarden.

Staying Safe in Every Season

As we enjoy the summer months, it’s crucial to stay fire-wise and prepared during the fire season. Clear dry brush around your home, create defensible space and have an emergency plan in place. Small actions can make a big difference in protecting your loved ones and property while keeping our community safe.

Summer travel brings the risk of measles in our surrounding region. As of Friday, May 23, New Mexico had a total of 78 measles cases reported by the New Mexico Department of Health. Please be aware that measles spreads through the air when a sick person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms can develop later, between 7 to 21 days after being exposed, and include: high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and rash that usually breaks out 3-5 days after symptoms begin.

Wherever your June journeys take you, we want your travels to be focused on fun activities and to be serious about your well-being; taking precautions to bookmark and keeping handy our guides and information. You never know when you will need to reach out for health care. Just like a box of tissues, the info we share is better when it’s within reach!

We’re Stronger Together

Here at the Lincoln County Community Health Council, we believe in the power of community. This June let’s work together to make Lincoln County healthier, stronger, and more connected than ever. Whether you’re joining a workshop, meeting up with friends, walking in the woods, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every action makes a difference in your physical and mental well-being.

We can’t wait to see you enjoying these events and we want to hear your ideas for how we can keep improving health care in Lincoln County. Let’s stay healthy together!

Lincoln County Community Health Council