ABQ Times

Today, Mayor Tim Keller and First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller hosted the annual Faith Leaders Breakfast in Albuquerque. The event brought together faith leaders to discuss how the interfaith community can address the city's challenges. Mayor Keller expressed gratitude for their service and highlighted ways faith-based organizations can support those in need.

"Our faith leaders provide a valuable piece to the puzzle in our efforts to address issues in our neighborhoods," said Mayor Tim Keller. "We are stronger when we rally together."

Key speakers included Haven for Hope CEO Kim Jefferies from San Antonio and New Creation Albuquerque Church Pastor Jesse Harden. They encouraged faith-based organizations to take action and shared their efforts to assist vulnerable residents. Jefferies emphasized Haven for Hope's one-stop-shop approach as a model for local initiatives.

"Today, we witnessed the power of unity as faith communities come together to address one of our society's most pressing challenges," said Kim Jefferies. "With compassion and commitment, we stand alongside those experiencing homelessness, offering not just shelter, but hope and the promise of a better tomorrow."

First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller stressed community collaboration, urging faith leaders to engage in activities like bed-building events, holiday meal services, and clothing drives.

"Faith-based organizations bring a vital element of collaboration to our efforts in the community," said First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller. "By working together, we can create pathways to stability and hope for our neighbors."

The City plans to continue its partnership with the faith-based community to tackle Albuquerque's pressing issues through collaborative action.