In one Colorado community, a remarkable effort is underway to combat the issue of a healthcare desert. An area where access to healthcare services is scarce, if not non-existent. Now, a new clinic is rising in Westminster, becoming a beacon of hope for those in need.

Empowering Communities with Accessible Healthcare

Building a New Clinic in Westminster

Ana Martinez and her family have called Westminster home for the past six years. They chose this growing community for its affordability and the sense of belonging it offered. "That's what motivated us to be closer to here," Martinez shared. Her decision led her to live in one of the area's affordable housing complexes at Terrace Gardens.For Drew O'Connor, Chief Operating Officer of Maiker Housing Partners, housing is just the first step. "Housing that's affordable for folks in a community is a critical starting point but it's not the only thing. People need health care. They need dental. They need mental health services," he emphasized.Over the last few years, Maiker Housing Partners has been dedicated to expanding access to critical services in the Westminster community. Through a partnership with Kids First Health, a new healthcare clinic for children is now coming to life. The clinic will be housed in one of Maiker Housing Partner's affordable housing complexes at Alto Apartments at 3045 W 71st Ave.

The Alto Community Clinic: A Hub of Care

"This is a healthcare desert, especially in pediatrics. The demographics of this community have a high free and reduced lunch rate for Westminster schools," said Whitney Gustin Connor, Executive Director for Kids First. "We've been in a very small clinic, about five blocks north, with just two exam rooms and only part-time mental health. It is unable to meet the need right now."Gustin Connor gave CBS Colorado a first look inside the clinic, which features six exam rooms, a dedicated mental health counseling space, and space to help register families for Medicaid and CHIP. Martinez, who will now be living within walking distance, expressed her gratitude. "As a mother of two young kids, there are times when I need quick resources. Having to do lines or long wait times is really stressful for me."

Overcoming Barriers to Healthcare

"In many of our communities, transportation is the largest barrier for our families to get to care. Even the time it takes to take a kiddo in for an appointment can be a challenge. So, to be in close proximity to housing and other local communities makes it easier," Gustin Connor added.For families like Martinez, this new clinic is a welcomed resource. It helps them continue to thrive while supporting the needs of their children. "When the babies are sick, moms don't know what to do quickly. We're very grateful because it makes our community stronger. It makes it so we live in a place filled with opportunities and services for future generations," Martinez said.There is no geographical barrier to which children can be served at the clinic. The goal is to double and possibly even triple the capacity of care they're able to provide to those in need. "With future sites, it'll be a similar co-location model, maybe with housing, maybe with other schools, but we always have an eye to reducing those barriers," Gustin Connor said.Organizers plan to open the facility in January 2025, marking a significant milestone in the community's journey towards better healthcare access.