Health center program

The Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration awarded $1.3 million to Estella Byrd Whitman Wellness and Community Resource Center, Inc. on August 1, 2026, under the Health Center Program (CFDA 93.224).

The recipient will establish a new primary care access point in West Ocala, Florida, serving ZIP codes 34475 and 34479, a medically underserved area with a population of 28,592 facing significant health disparities, high poverty rates, and unemployment. The facility will deliver primary care, preventive services, chronic disease management, and referrals for behavioral and dental health, with an emphasis on culturally competent care and collaboration with local organizations to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities among residents.

The award obligates $1.3 million for the period August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2027. Place of performance is Ocala, Florida. The Health Center Program funds health centers under Section 330(e) of the Public Health Service Act to improve access to comprehensive, high-quality primary health care services in medically underserved communities and to support new health centers and service delivery sites that expand primary care access.

Abstract

The estella byrd whitman community health center (EBWCHC) seeks $650,000 in funding from the health resources and services administration (HRSA) to establish a new access point in west ocala, targeting ZIP codes 34475 and 34479. This area, with a population of 28,592, faces significant health disparities, high poverty rates, and unemployment, despite recent improvements in insurance coverage across marion county. The new access point, strategically located in a residential area, will address these gaps by providing comprehensive, affordable healthcare services. The facility will offer primary care, preventive services, chronic disease management, and referrals for behavioral and dental health, aiming to improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and establish a sustainable healthcare home for residents. Our approach emphasizes culturally competent care, and we will collaborate with local organizations to maximize our impact. Our board of directors and leadership are fully committed to the success of this new site. We've developed a strategic plan focused on community engagement, partnerships with local providers, and continuous quality improvement. With HRSA's support, EBWCHC is poised to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of west ocala residents.