From Well Baby checks to diabetes prevention, from back-to-school physicals to mental health counseling, the Multnomah County Community Health Center program cares for thousands of children, adults and older adults. Every year in August, the County recognizes the unique role of the Community Health Center program and the staff that deliver healthcare to people, no matter their circumstances.
National Community Health Center Week also serves as a chance to celebrate the County’s more than 600 medical and dental providers, nurses, pharmacists, behavioral health teams, community health workers and administrators who are committed to providing compassionate care to individuals and making a meaningful difference in their community.
“Our community health center workers are heroic. Their commitment to this work and our community makes Multnomah County a healthier, more vibrant place,” said Chair Jessica Vega Pederson. “We’re excited to celebrate these incredible teams and their ability to serve so many of the most vulnerable in culturally-specific and responsive ways that bring health and wellness to their communities.”
The Community Health Center program provides primary care, dental, pharmacy, behavioral health and wraparound services to more than 55,000 people annually at nine health center locations and nine Student Health Centers. The Center’s model of care is driven by the services needed in each unique neighborhood. Together with regional healthcare partners, the County helps ensure that every person has access to preventative care and urgent treatment when they need it.
“During National Community Health Center Week, we celebrate the collective strength of our community, the dedication of our healthcare workforce, and the transformative impact of accessible, inclusive healthcare,” said Community Health Center program Executive Director DJ Rhodes. “At the Multnomah County Community Health Center program, we are honored to serve and uplift our community and create a healthier future for generations to come.”
As part of this year’s National Health Center Week, the community is invited to two special events celebrating health, wellness and the unique spirit of the neighborhoods where health center staff and patients live, work and play.
Connect Cully Health Celebration
Date: Sunday, Aug. 6
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: La Clínica de Buena Salud, 6736 NE Killingsworth Street
National Health Center Week will kick off with a community health fair at La Clinica de Buena Salud in the Cully neighborhood. Here’s what to expect:
- Information to help connect community members with key health resources
- Food and refreshments
- Community resources and activities for all ages
- A special bike ride in partnership with The Street Trust and BIKETOWN from La Clinica to Portland Community College’s new Workforce Development Center, where the clinic staff will highlight plans for expanding and relocating the Cully/La Clinica Health Center in 2025.
Rockwood Back-to-School Health Fair
Date: Thursday, Aug. 10
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Downtown Rockwood Plaza, 18535 SE Stark Street
As the new school year beckons, the Community Health Center program is teaming up with Wallace Medical Concern to celebrate National Health Center Week with a back-to-school community health fair. Here’s what’s in store:
- Mobile vans providing children, youth and families with essential health services.
- Community partners offering health screenings and a variety of valuable resources.
- Exciting games and activities to keep children engaged and entertained.
- Showcasing the County’s mobile van with dental sealants, Oregon Health Plan information and details about our pharmacy services.
All are welcome at these events and families, friends and individuals are encouraged to join.