Meeting needs and offering hope: Supporting Orange County’s underserved communities

Fred Rogers famously quoted his mother’s timeless advice in his book “Mister Rogers Talks with Parents,” saying, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping."  

For nearly 30 years, Providence Mission Hospital has embraced the role of helper, working collaboratively with the South Orange County Family Resource Center and the Community Health Enrichment Collaborative Family Resource Center. These two centers provide support and resources to the underserved, uninsured and underinsured individuals in South Orange County.  

“Our main goal is for community members to come to our centers and have all their needs met,” shared Hilda Santana Heredia, supervisor, Community Services.  

To meet their goal in improving access to care, the centers offer a range of programs that help community members navigate the health care system and access culturally responsive care. Additionally, they provide services beyond health care, such as legal consultations for immigration, divorce, child custody and tenant rights, as well as assistance with domestic violence assistance and case management.  

In addition, the centers partner with local social service agencies to provide services and activities in English and Spanish for families in need including parent, teen and child education classes, support groups, counseling services and community information. 

With long-term goals of ensuring high-quality, equitable access to care for the most vulnerable, Providence fulfills the role of helper by offering hope through their collaborative efforts with the centers.