Albuquerque’s South Valley recently welcomed a new community-focused center where residents can learn, connect, and improve their health — all at no charge.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield New Mexico’s Blue Door Neighborhood Center, at 3925 Las Estancias Way in the Las Estancias shopping center, opened on August 26. Programming will focus on whole-person health, including wellness classes and services that target chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, behavioral health, and maternal and infant health. The center will collaborate with community organizations and health care providers to offer no-cost resources to everyone in the community.
“Blue Door Neighborhood Center reflects our deep commitment to our communities and our members,” said BCBSNM president Janice Torrez, speaking at an invitation-only ribbon cutting ceremony. “The South Valley is a robust and growing area, and we want to be in a convenient location for our members and the community.”
Local healer Marissa Santos blessed the 2,100-square-foot center and offered individual blessings to guests. New Mexico State Representative and Speaker of the House Javier Martinez also spoke at the event.
“It can be hard to gain access to health care,” Martinez said. “However, places like this can help eliminate barriers by providing health and wellness services to a community that needs it.”
Center staff are bilingual and include a health educator, community outreach specialist, and two community affairs concierges.
“We welcome everyone,” said Anita Hamel, the center’s manager. “We’re excited to begin offering resources, services, and programming to meet the needs of our community.”
Blue Door is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. For more information, call 505-816-5100 or email [email protected]. Follow the Blue Door Neighborhood Center Facebook page for the latest updates on events and activities.
