Last month, in recognition of Nurses Week 2026, we hosted a panel with some of our health center nurses to showcase the incredible work they do every day and explore the on-the-ground perspective of the innovative services Housing Works provides. The conversation highlighted both the clinical expertise and deep compassion that define our nursing team. Every day our nursing team is at the center of patient care with lifesaving medication administration and empathetic individualized care to everyone who comes in, ensuring patients feel supported, informed, and respected throughout their care journey.
Nursing for me has always been ‘what can I do to impact someone else’s life?’Samantha Downes BSN, RN at East New York
Housing Works is always at the forefront of innovative care for our patients with newly available treatment regimens and injectable medications including a new Long Acting Injectable PrEP option where patients get injections twice a year, which has become incredibly popular. This commitment to innovation allows us to meet patients where they are and reduce barriers to ongoing care. Our nursing team works firsthand on the ground with newly available treatments and constantly changing patient regimens, adapting quickly to ensure patients receive the most effective and up-to-date care.
Here at Housing Works, the nurses never stop learning. [An additional benefit of Long-Acting Injectables is that] patients can get all of their care under one roof. They don’t have to worry about finding somewhere else to get their PrEP Long-Acting Injectable, they can get it here.Zenia Aquino Moreno ADN, BSN-S, RN Nurse Manager at Downtown Brooklyn
By providing comprehensive care each day, Housing Works nurses are able to build trust and rapport with patients, forming meaningful relationships that support long-term health outcomes. Their presence often serves as a consistent and reassuring point of contact for patients navigating complex care needs.
When I see my clients and ask them how they’re doing, the reason why I ask is because I'm right here and I want to listen.Steven Dantus LPN at 125th Street
The cherry on top is seeing people happy and healthy. Seeing the change of when they first come in to finally being happy with themselves and being healthy. That is the greatest part of being a nurse.Zenia Aquino Moreno ADN, BSN-S, RN Nurse Manager at Downtown Brooklyn
My favorite thing that I love about being a nurse is that we get to do things that most people are afraid to do, and we do it with confidence.Samantha Downes BSN, RN at East New York
Together, these perspectives reflect the dedication, skill, and compassion that define Nursing at Housing Works. We are proud to celebrate our nurses not just during Nurses Week, but every day, as they continue to deliver innovative, patient-centered care across all of our clinics.
