Care Resource and Community Partners Provide Access to Care
The United for Care (U4C) community health fair brings together healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to expand access to care and wellness resources in Historic Overtown.
Expanding Access to Healthcare in Overtown
On Saturday, October 26, Care Resource hosted the fifth annual United for Care (U4C) health fair at the Culmer Community Action Center. The health center partnered with numerous community organizations to provide healthcare resources and support. Partners included Clear Health Alliance, Walgreens, iHeartMedia Inc., Feeding South Florida, Churches United for HIV/AIDS Prevention, The University of Miami, United Way of Miami-Dade, and Miami-Dade County.
Through a partnership between the Food for Life Network and Feeding South Florida, 375 attendees received food assistance at no cost. Additionally, 68 individuals received wellness screenings, and 56 individuals were tested for HIV. Testing at U4C led to essential health interventions:
“As a result of testing, an individual that was previously diagnosed as HIV positive but was not in care, was linked to Care Resource’s Test & Treat program. From the health center’s partnership with Uber Health, the client was brought in the following Monday and seen immediately by medical staff. He received a 30-day supply of medications before being transported back home by Uber. U4C provides these key interventions and access to healthcare services.”
James Lecounte, Linkage Services Manager, Care Resource
Other services included complimentary flu shots and blood pressure screenings. Attendees also received pre-diabetes screenings, diabetes screenings, and blood sugar testing. At U4C, attendees were encouraged to build positive habits surrounding their wellness. Individuals seeking care could schedule a doctor’s appointment at a Care Resource health center. Basic laboratory services were available at no cost, including for uninsured patients.
Attendees learned about Care Resource services from onsite staff. Team members included case managers, behavioral health specialists, medical providers, dental providers, and health promotion professionals.
U4C also featured family-friendly entertainment. Activities included a bouncy house and live music. By bringing services directly into Historic Overtown, Care Resource furthered its mission to support community wellness. The event also helped connect residents to important healthcare resources.
Community health fairs help connect South Florida residents to preventive care and health education. They also provide access to support services and healthcare resources. Through partnerships and community outreach, Care Resource continues to expand access to healthcare. The organization also promotes wellness throughout the communities it serves.
