A Bold New Model For Community Care - Two Health And Resource Hubs To Expand Services To At-Risk Children And Families

“Community-Based Connections is proud to launch these innovative Health Hubs as a bold new model for community care, ensuring that youth and families have access not only to holistic healthcare, but to a place where they are truly seen, heard, and supported,” said Mikelange Olbel, CEO of Community-Based Connections, Inc. “As the youngest child of immigrant parents who migrated to the U.S. in search of opportunities and a better quality of life, I am channeling their remarkable strength to break the cycle of poverty that continues to plague underserved populations in Broward County. While life-changing social service programs are at risk of being eliminated or underfunded, we are doubling down on our commitment to the promise of education and accessible healthcare. These new Health and Resource Hubs are a critical step to fulfilling our mission of creating new pathways for families in need.”

The Hubs will offer a full spectrum of holistic services including primary care (preventive screenings, immunizations, chronic disease management, and general check-ups), health education to support lifestyle choices, behavioral health support (mental health counseling and trauma-informed care), case management and care coordination, family strengthening services, crisis intervention support, nutritional education and food security programs, housing support, resource navigation, employment assistance and workforce development initiatives. Primary care services will be operated by Broward Community and Family Health Centers Inc. (BCOM), a premier safety-net provider of affordable, accessible, comprehensive, primary and preventive care programs, focusing on patient-centered care. Initial hours of operation for both Hubs will be open during the school day, along with select evening hours.

According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, both communities served by the Hubs are designated as Medically Underserved Areas (MUA) and Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA) for primary care, mental health, and dental care. While there are existing clinics nearby, demand for healthcare services exceeds current capacity, especially for affordable preventive care and chronic disease management. Residents located within a three-mile radius of the Hubs, are comprised of a majority of Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino households that collectively (47%) fall below the poverty line.

CBCI has a notable track record of creating innovative programs that make a difference. While conducting free health screenings four-and-a-half years ago at C. Robert Markham Elementary School in Pompano, CBCI identified that the school’s large, underserved family population needed immediate and ongoing health access. CBCI took leadership to provide targeted health and education offerings and consistent family-based support, which has helped boost the school’s profile from an “F” to an “A.” This new partnership with BCPS to open these hubs is another milestone achievement toward unifying the health and education promise.

“Broward County Public Schools prides itself on developing programs that support the health and well-being of our students which is why this collaboration with Community-Based Connections is so important,” said Dr. Howard Hepburn, BCPS superintendent. “We are excited to see these programs thrive, not only addressing the medical needs and lifestyles of our diverse student population, but by taking a holistic approach that nurtures and strengthens the entire family unit.”

“We are thrilled to be a collaborative partner with CBCI, fulfilling an important need in two critical areas in Broward County with integrated, accessible care and wrap-around services for underserved individuals,” said Rosalyn Frazier, CEO of BCOM Health. “By targeting the root causes of health disparities and socio-economic challenges, we will enhance the overall health and well-being in our community.”

Corporate partners contributing to CBCI’s program include Florida Blue, Children’s Services Council of Broward County and Fruitful Field in Pompano.

About Community-Based Connections, Inc.

Community-Based Connections, Inc. (CBCI) is a nonprofit human services organization with more than 20 years of expertise in delivering youth development advocacy and family resilience strengthening programs, plus health and community empowerment initiatives to underserved populations in Broward County. CBCI was founded upon the belief that service providers who have natural ties to the community are in the best position to help improve the odds of youth and family success. The CBCI mission is to expand the options available to children – from cradle to college - that promote their social and academic growth, equipping them with the skills they need to overcome challenges and thrive in adulthood. CBCI programs services that engage, encourage and motivate include the Young Believers Program, Family Strengthening Program, S.M.A.R.T. Team, New Day Diversion, and the Early Achievers Program. For more information, visit: https://communitybasedconnections.com.

About Broward Community & Family Health Centers, Inc. (BCOM Health):

Broward Community & Family Health Centers, Inc. (BCOM Health) is a federally qualified health center (FQHC) and Non-Profit Organization committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and compassionate care to individuals and families across Broward County, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. BCOM offers a full spectrum of health services, including primary medical care, behavioral health, dental care, pediatric care, women’s health, chronic disease management, lab services, pharmacy support, and health education. It serves patients of all ages and backgrounds, with a mission rooted in accessibility, dignity, and prevention-focused care. Staffed by a dedicated team of board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, dentists, and support staff, BCOM empowers communities to live healthier lives through coordinated, patient-centered services and culturally competent care. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit: www.bcomhealth.org.