On Monday, September 8, Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid teamed up with Las Vegas Raiders safety Jeremy Chinn and the Jeremy Chinn Foundation to host a lively football season kickoff celebration for the residents of HELP of Southern Nevada’s Shannon West Homeless Youth Center (SWHYC).
The event provided SWHYC clients with an evening filled with fun, food, and community spirit. Known off the field for his advocacy for those affected by homelessness, Chinn is committed to providing relief and access to everyday necessities for individuals, especially youth, facing housing insecurity.
“We are deeply grateful to HELP of Southern Nevada and Jeremy Chinn for their commitment to ending homelessness and supporting our neighbors in need,” said Joe Fu, CEO of Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid. “HELP of Southern Nevada has been a pillar of strength in our community for over five decades, and we’re honored to collaborate with such a dedicated organization who shares our mission to improve the health of our community.”
For more than 25 years, Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid has proudly invested in community partners large and small. Since 2023, the organization has reinvested over $10 million into its local communities, helping to support programs to improve areas like housing, access to care, maternal care and food security, to name a few.
The celebration featured staff from HELP of Southern Nevada and volunteers from Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid. Additionally, attendees were treated to dinner from Big Chicken, a live DJ set by Arlene Barba, the owner and DJ of Sound Fusion Entertainment, an interactive football game, a meet-and-greet with Jeremy Chinn, and no-cost haircuts from Faded Barbershop Lounge LV.
To honor their dignity and show they are seen and valued, each SWHYC client received a set of new essential items — including a drawstring backpack, shorts, hoodie and athletic sandals — courtesy of Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid. These items provide comfort and serve as a meaningful reminder that they matter.
“It’s an honor to be part of something that brings joy and support to these incredible young people,” said Jeremy Chinn, safety for the Las Vegas Raiders. “Everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported—and events like this remind us of the power of community and compassion.”
“We are so thankful to Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid and Jeremy Chinn for their generosity and heart,” said Fuilala Riley, CEO of HELP of Southern Nevada. “For 55 years, HELP has worked to uplift those in need, and collaborations like this allow us to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of our youth.”
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