Roxanne Housley
The Women of Quail Creek Community Outreach Committee has collected many donated items in the past, but this is the first time we’re asking for new and gently used shoes. Proceeds from the shoe donations will support United Community Health Center’s (UCHC) Pediatric Health Programs. UCHC was founded to ensure rural Southern Arizona families have access to care close to home and serves as a vital safety net for children and families.
UCHC Mobile Dental Program
For many children in rural communities, dental pain is not occasional; it is a daily reality. Tooth decay is preventable, yet it remains one of the most common chronic illnesses in children. When cavities go untreated, children struggle to sleep, eat, and focus; miss school; fall behind academically; and carry discomfort no child should have to endure.
The UCHC Dental RV addresses dental concerns by bringing preventative care directly to schools and community events, making it easier for rural children to get care without missing school or parents missing work.
“Children love the RV! They get excited to visit. In fact, when care gets provided at school, many children are more relaxed and confident than in a clinic setting. They put on the glasses, settle in the chair, and the treatment and preventative care is no longer intimidating. They leave smiling and feeling important!” says Ericka Casto, Dental Clinic staff member.
Thanks to grants and community partnerships, our Mobile Dental RV is being upgraded to better serve underinsured children across Green Valley, Sahuarita, and Amado communities and beyond. Every child deserves a healthy smile, and your support can make it happen!
Behavioral Health
Many children in rural communities face ongoing emotional and social challenges, often lacking consistent support at home and at school. These challenges have increased post-pandemic. Long wait times, limited mental health services, and geographical isolation make access especially difficult for children and adolescents in Pima County.
Little Oliver struggled with behavioral health challenges both at school and at home. He was connected to our clinic and our Behavioral Health provider Dylan. At first, sessions were tough, but after a few months of counseling and learning new coping skills, Oliver transformed.
“He is the most kind, loving kid—a totally different kid,” his parents share. Today, his family transferred him to our pediatric clinic for convenience, confident in the care he receives.
UCHC is expanding Behavioral Health services through federal funding, grants, community partnerships, and local donations. Their Behavioral Health professionals require pediatric sensory equipment in their clinic, such as sensory rocking chairs, relax sensory kits, and sensory therapy balls.
We accept every type of women’s, men’s, and children’s shoes, sandals, sport shoes, and boots. Collection will begin on Thursday, Feb. 12, from noon to 1 p.m. and every Thursday thereafter until April 2, at 478 N. Hale Drive. Committee members will be on hand to unload your shoes.
If you have any questions, contact Roxanne Housley at Roxanne.housley@gmail.com or 520-444-2737.