Project Vida, a non-profit organization supported by the PC (USA) and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, is committed to serving the El Paso community, particularly in underserved areas. In response to growing needs, Project Vida Health Center, one of its key initiatives, has expanded beyond its original facilities. This growth led to a collaboration with the Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program, which provided the necessary funding to launch a new psychiatric residency program, now accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).
To alleviate the burden on the Northeast Family Practice Center and to support the new residency program, Project Vida has constructed a state-of-the-art clinic – aiming to provide much-needed medical services to the underserved area in the Lower Northeast area.
Due to rising construction costs and inflation, a loan was necessary to bridge the funding shortfall. The Presbyterian Investment & Loan Program provided the essential financing to cover this deficit.
Construction of the Fernandez Health Clinic was completed by late June, with furniture and medical equipment currently being installed. The clinic opened in early July, with a grand opening celebration on July 20, 2024. The facility is named in honor of Rosario Fernandez, a cherished Project Vida employee who made a lasting impact on both the community and her colleagues.
El Paso, the sixth-largest city in Texas with a population of 678,815, has the highest Hispanic population among major Texas cities, with 81% of its residents identifying as Hispanic. The new Fernandez Health Clinic will play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare services for the Lower Northeast community, offering vital support to a predominantly Hispanic population and furthering Project Vida’s mission of community care.
The Presbyterian Investment & Loan Program is pleased to partner with Project Vida on this much-needed facility.