Summer was a busy time for the Troubleshooting for Health, our mobile outreach immunization program. In order to cover the demand for their services, the team works six days a week during the month of August; they go from Cleveland-Ripley NCI to Aldine WIC office to Greenspoint Mall preventing potentially life-altering childhood deceases. The Harris Health System mobile immunization program offers free vaccination services for children two months to 18 years of age.
“Since students who are not immunized according to state requirements are not permitted to enroll in public schools, the 652 immunizations your staff provided to 237 children ensured that those students will not miss a moment of instructional time” said Bevin O’Connor, Director of Health Services at Cypress Fairbanks ISD.
“We are fortunate to have such a wonderful community partnership with the Harris Health System” she added. This mobile outreach program opens access to vital vaccines for vulnerable populations in the poorest neighborhoods of Harris County. Our Troubleshooting for Health team partners with school districts such as Pasadena and Klein, nonprofit organizations like Neighborhood Centers, faith-based institutions such as La Luz del Mundo, and health fairs in shopping centers to make sure every child in Harris County can easy access immunization services and go back to school safely. According to Verenice Villarreal, Harris Health Project Coordinator for Pediatric Ambulatory Care Services, in 2013 Troubleshooting for Health provided immunization services in 83 locations throughout Harris County, some of those locations were visited several times due to the high demand for vaccinations. Just this outreach program alone, served 4000 children last year. The proceeds from the Texas Med Fun Run organized by the HCHD Foundation go to support immunization services provided by the Harris Health System.
“From the 2014 fun run, Troubleshooting for Health is expected to receive over $50,000 to continue with their vital services” said Ruth Ransom, HCHD Foundation Executive Director. The 13th Texas Med Fun Run will be February 7, 2015 save the date and help us keep Harris County children healthy!