Linda Sosa: Empowering the Hispanic Community in the Fight Against COVID-19
Marvin Gonzales
Linda Sosa, a long-time parishioner at St. Cajetan Catholic Church in Denver and a Hispanic Leadership Network graduate, has witnessed firsthand the pain her
community has endured due to COVID-19. Motivated by the losses and the challenges faced by Latinos in accessing the vaccine, she took action to make a difference.
The pandemic has disproportionately affected the Latino community, which faces barriers such as language, lack of technology, transportation, and mistrust of the vaccine. These obstacles have prevented many from getting vaccinated, but Sosa has worked tirelessly to overcome them. With the support of Father Angel Perez-Lopez, Sosa has helped more than 5,000 Latinos receive the vaccine, focusing initially on the elderly in her community.
“Many of our people don’t have health insurance, don’t know how to register online, and don’t speak English,” Sosa shared. “All these obstacles stop them from seeking help. That’s one of the main reasons this initiative started.”
In February, St. Cajetan Parish organized a drive-thru vaccination clinic, where nearly 2,000 people received their first dose. Volunteers, including young adults and teens from the parish, called elderly community members to register them and assisted them during the event. Sosa expressed her pride in the young volunteers, saying, “These youths from our parish are doing incredible social work. I reminded them that, just as Jesus empowered his apostles to heal, they too have the power to help by taking action.”
Colorado Governor Jared Polis visited the clinic, praising the parish’s efforts to make vaccines accessible to the elderly. “Vaccines are our gateway to saving lives and getting back to the Colorado we love,” he said. “It was wonderful to visit with community members and providers who are helping us meet people where they are and get more shots into more arms.”
For Sosa, the Church represents the trust and hope the community needs to feel safe and encouraged to get vaccinated. She sees the volunteer work of the youth as a sign of the Church’s future: “They’re between 16 and 18 years old, very talented, and they’re the future of the Church. Serving is what makes you feel alive.”
With more vaccination clinics planned, Sosa continues to lead with faith and determination. Her message to the community is clear: “Do not be afraid—come and be a part of the vaccination process. By getting vaccinated, you’re saving lives and protecting your families.”