(Austin) – Central Health, CommUnityCare Health Centers, and Sendero Health Plans are teaming up during National Health Center Week to host two back-to-school events offering students free backpacks, school supplies, immunizations, and more.
Central Health-funded CommUnityCare, the largest system of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in Travis County, will provide free immunizations, first come, first served, for children ages 4 -18, as part of the Vaccine for Children Program, providing all vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at no charge.
“At CommUnityCare, no one is turned away or denied care because of their inability to pay,” said Jaeson Founier, CommUnityCare CEO .
For over 50 years, FQHCs have provided health services to people regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. Each year, during National Health Center Week, FQHCs celebrate the work and services they provide to residents with low income or no insurance. CommUnityCare operates 25 health centers throughout Travis County, and served more than 96,000 patients last year.
“We want children to go back-to-school healthy, equipped, and ready to learn ,”said Angela McFadden, RN, Clinical Trainer at CommUnityCare. “This event is unique because we are providing free vaccines to children ages 4-18 in Travis County.”
Health care professionals will be on site to speak with patients and parents about what vaccines they may need. Parents are advised to bring their children’s immunization records.
Central Health President and CEO Mike Geeslin added, “vaccines are important to your overall health. Central health and partners are working hard to ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare regardless of their income.”
WHAT:
In honor of National Health Center Week and back-to-school, the community is invited to two events in North and South Austin. The Central Health Enterprise will give away school backpacks, prizes, provide health and vision screenings, information about other resources, immunizations, refreshments, and more.
WHEN/WHERE:
South Austin
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 17, 2018
Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis Dr. Austin, TX 78741
North Austin
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018
North Central Health Center, 1210 W. Braker Ln. Austin, TX 78758
WHO:
Central Health, CommUnityCare Health Centers, Sendero Health Plans.
Central Health President & CEO Mike Geeslin, CommUnityCare CEO Jaeson T. Fournier, CommUnityCare Clinical Trainer Angela McFadden, RN.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Children receiving school backpacks, supplies and immunizations; interviews with families, Mike Geeslin, Jaeson T. Fournier and Angela McFadden.
