By Tracy J. Yellen
For three decades, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation has been dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the residents of our unique binational, tri-state region.
Established in 1995 with $130 million from the sale of Providence Memorial Hospital to Tenet Healthcare Corporation, the Health Foundation has remained committed to leading, leveraging, and investing in initiatives, programs, and policies that promote health and prevent disease in El Paso and Hudspeth counties in west Texas, southern New Mexico, and Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua.
Our journey began with a vision for healthier communities. Over the years, we’ve seen this vision unfold. Many of the healthcare resources we now rely on didn’t exist when we started. Through thoughtful investment and partnership, our region has grown to include state-of-the-art healthcare institutions, expanded higher education, and significantly improved public health programs.
Our work has focused on creating sustainable solutions that empower healthier lives, including:
- Encouraging physical activity through walking campaigns and trail projects;
- Promoting healthy eating with school gardens and culturally relevant cooking programs;
- Expanding access to mental health services;
- Reducing smoking rates to historic lows;
- Increasing access to health information and care;
- Investing in programs for disconnected youth;
- Building capacity in nonprofit and health sectors;
- Responding to public health crises like COVID-19;
- Investing in major programs to increase health professionals including nurses, dentists, occupational and physical therapists, cancer specialists, and psychologists; and
- Advancing health education in schools, clinics, and communities.
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we know that our region faces continued health challenges, including persistent high rates of diabetes and mental illness, limited access to health insurance, and shortages of healthcare providers. Together with our partners, we strive to make healthy living the easy choice for everyone.
Over the next 12 months, we will highlight the impact of our investments and collaborations working with our grantees and community partners. We are grateful for the vision, commitment, and tireless work of our founders, board members, staff, grantees, and community partners who have helped bring our mission to life.
We are additionally proud to serve alongside our sister organizations – the Paso del Norte Community Foundation and Fundación Paso del Norte – established in 2013 and 2015, respectively, collectively investing over $383 million in grants and charitable expenses, including the Health Foundation’s $266 million in awards.
As we enter the next phase of this journey, we invite you to join us in creating a culture of health for all by:
- Taking advantage of the many programs and services provided by our partners in health;
- Make a gift of any size to the Paso del Norte Health Foundation by texting “PDNHealth” to 1-915-900-7082.
Thank you for your continued support, generosity, and leadership. Together, we can build a healthier, more vibrant future for the Paso del Norte region.
Tracy J. Yellen is CEO of the Paso del Norte Health Foundation and Paso del Norte Community Foundation.
The post Celebrating 30 years of transforming health in the Paso del Norte region appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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