Chiricahua Community Health Centers Receives Grant to Expand Affordable Health Care in Southern Arizona

Chiricahua Community Health Centers has received a generous $250,000 award from the General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM), a general agency of the United Methodist Church. This funding will help expand access to essential health services across Cochise County and strengthen Chiricahua’s commitment to its vision of Health for All.

As the largest provider of primary care in the county, Chiricahua continues to serve thousands of patients each year regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. The new grant comes at a critical time, as more families face financial pressure due to rising health care costs and ongoing changes in federal programs.

Expanding Access to Care in Rural and Border Communities

The funding will directly support programs that remove barriers to care for patients throughout southern Arizona. In recent years, Chiricahua has seen a significant increase in patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Many individuals are working families who face difficult choices between health care, housing, and basic living expenses.

“At Chiricahua, Health for All is more than a slogan. It is a promise,” said Chiricahua Health Foundation Executive Director Dennis Walto. “This support from GBGM allows us to continue welcoming everyone through our doors and ensuring care is available when it is needed most.”

Chiricahua maintains an open door policy designed to meet patients where they are. Through integrated medical, dental, behavioral health, and care coordination services, the organization addresses not only immediate medical needs but also the social factors that affect long term wellness.

Supporting Patients Beyond the Clinic

The impact of this grant reaches far beyond exam rooms. Through care coordination, community partnerships, and emergency assistance funds, Chiricahua helps families navigate unexpected crises that can threaten their health and stability.

Pricilla’s Story

Pricilla’s Story reflects the real difference donor support makes. A single mother in Douglas, Arizona, Pricilla worked long hours in the fields to provide for her children until a serious shuttle accident left her injured and unable to work. Without income, she quickly fell behind on rent and utilities.

During a follow up appointment at Chiricahua, she shared an eviction notice with her Care Coordinator. Through collaboration with St. Vincent de Paul, direct negotiation with her landlord, and access to Chiricahua Cares Funds, the team helped secure utility assistance, reduce late fees, and stabilize her housing. Today, Pricilla is back at work and her family remains safely housed.

Stories like hers highlight why integrated care matters. Health outcomes improve when families have stability, support, and access to resources that address the whole person.

Investing in Health Equity Across Southern Arizona

Chiricahua’s work reflects a broader mission shared by GBGM to bring hope and healing to underserved communities. The organization continues to focus on culturally responsive care, outreach to rural areas, and programs that ensure patients receive preventive services before small issues become major health concerns.

Roland Fernandes, GBGM’s General Secretary, shared his support for the partnership, noting that the grant represents a meaningful investment in addressing basic needs within an under resourced rural and border region. Through collaboration and shared vision, the partnership aims to create lasting change for families across Cochise County.

Moving Forward Together

The new funding will help Chiricahua expand care coordination, maintain services for uninsured patients, and strengthen programs that promote long term health and stability. More importantly, it reinforces a community centered approach where health care extends beyond clinic walls and into the everyday lives of patients.

As Chiricahua continues to grow, partnerships with donors and community organizations remain essential. Together, these efforts ensure that families throughout the region have access to compassionate, high quality care and the opportunity to build healthier futures.

If you would like to support families in need, consider making a gift to Chiricahua Cares or the Chiricahua Health Foundation by clicking here.
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To learn more about Chiricahua’s care coordination services, visit:

Care Coordination