September 30, 2010

pproximately 7,000 Acres Homes households will receive a visit Oct. 14-16 from Houston Department of Health and Human Services (HDHHS) employees handing out information packets that highlight the area’s community resources.

The block walking by teams comprised of 250 employees, and some volunteers, is part of HDHHS’ seventh Assessment, Intervention and Mobilization (AIM) project. The teams will visit homes and apartment units.

HDHHS uses AIM projects to evaluate and improve the ability of residents to manage their health and well-being. It also uses the AIM projects to help link residents to needed health or human services.

After completing the packet distribution, HDHHS employees will spend about two weeks following up on the residents’ immediate needs. Some of most common needs that HDHHS found during previous AIM projects are prescription medications, food, clothes, utility assistance, transportation support and counseling about eligibility for a variety of programs.

HDHHS began the assessment portion of the AIM project earlier this year by conducting household surveys and focus groups to identify health-related issues. 

HDHHS conducted AIM projects the last four years in Houston’s Fifth Ward, Near Northside, Sunnyside, Independence Heights, Magnolia Parkand in the Tri-Community area comprised of Clinton Park, Fidelity and Clinton View neighborhoods.

For more information, call HDHHS at 832-393-5427.