Chiricahua Expands Health Services with New Willcox Family Health Center

Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. (CCHCI) is proud to announce a major $250,000 investment from the Sierra Vista Industrial Development Authority (IDA). These funds directly support the ongoing renovation and construction of the new Willcox Family Health Center in Willcox, Arizona.

Dr Jonathan Melk with Mayor Mike Laws and Sierra Vista IDA Director Demetry Simonton announcing the new Chiricahua Willcox Family Health Center

The announcement was delivered on-site at the location of Chiricahua’s newest clinic, marking a pivotal moment for healthcare expansion in Northern Cochise County.

A Timely Investment in Local Health and Economic Vitality

This strategic funding arrives at a critical juncture as Chiricahua prepares to significantly increase service capacity for individuals and families across the Willcox community.

“This investment comes at an important time as Chiricahua prepares to increase service capacity in the Willcox area,” said Dr. Jonathan Melk, Chief Executive Officer at Chiricahua. “… We are grateful for many partners who have contributed to making this dream real. Special thanks to the City of Willcox, the Del E. Webb Foundation, and the Sierra Vista IDA whose investment will help us complete this next phase.”

Connecting Healthcare Access to Community Growth

The new clinic is designed to enhance both regional health outcomes and economic development. Demetry Simonson, Board President and Director of the Industrial Development Authority of the City of Sierra Vista, highlighted this connection:

“We recognize that economic development is intricately linked to the health and well-being of our residents. By investing in the Chiricahua Community Health Center, we are not only improving healthcare access but also creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in Willcox and beyond.”

Mr. Simonson added that the Sierra Vista IDA will continue to champion initiatives that promote sustainable growth, elevate quality of life, and drive economic vitality throughout Cochise County.

Over Two Decades of Caring for the Willcox Community

Chiricahua’s dedication to Northern Cochise County spans more than 20 years, evolving from targeted outreach to comprehensive health infrastructure:

  • 2000: Chiricahua began serving Willcox by addressing the primary medical needs of local farmworkers.
  • 2001: Launched mobile medical services within the City of Willcox.
  • 2006: Expanded mobile services to include comprehensive dental care.
  • 2006–2020: Partnered with the Willcox Unified School District and local organizations to grow patient care capabilities.
  • 2021: Awarded a federal infrastructure grant, laying the foundation for permanent clinic facility expansion.
  • 2022: Secured a key grant from the Del E. Webb Foundation to construct the modular clinic framework.

Looking Ahead: The New Era of Healthcare in Willcox

The construction of the Willcox Family Health Center represents Chiricahua’s ongoing commitment to its foundational mission: Health for All.

Group of community members and staff touring the interior of the new Chiricahua Willcox Family Health Center during a walkthrough

By replacing temporary mobile units with a state-of-the-art permanent healthcare center, residents of Willcox will soon enjoy streamlined access to affordable primary care, preventive wellness, behavioral health, and dental services closer to home.

Learn More & Stay Connected