Celebrating Black History Month

Across Esperanza


On Tuesday, February 17th, Esperanza’s Human Resources Department hosted special Black History Month Lunch & Learn sessions at each of our clinical sites. Staff gathered to share a meal, reflect, and celebrate the rich history, resilience, and contributions of the Black community.


Attendees enjoyed delicious catering by Dakota Stanley, heard inspiring reflections from Pastor Mark Abrams of Calvary Chapel Word of Life Church, and were blessed by several members of our Young at Heart Seniors Program, led by Board Member Stephanie Stanford. Seniors who participated include Ms. Carol, Ms. Carolyn, Ms. Pat, Ms. Stephanie, Ms. Margie, Ms. Lettie (photographed above, top row, third picture from the left). We also heard meaningful insights from staff members Aneesha Reeder and Darlene Burton.


The sessions concluded with a lively Kahoot! quiz game that brought energy, laughter, and friendly competition to the afternoon.



It was a beautiful time of learning, connection, and honoring the voices and stories that continue to shape our community and our shared mission.




Esperanza and Health Federation of Philadelphia’s 2025 Diabetes Prevention Program Graduation

On January 28th, we celebrated the graduation of eight participants in our Diabetes Prevention Program, held in partnership with the Health Federation of Philadelphia (HFP). Said HFP’s Diabetes Program Manager, Rose Freel, "It was an honor to collaborate with Esperanza on the Diabetes Prevention Program. The relationship between the lifestyle coach and participants grew beautifully over the program and it was amazing to see the bond that formed within the group. Participants learned how to implement healthy habits into their daily lives that felt both applicable and exciting." 


Over the past year, the cohort learned how to prevent type 2 diabetes by building sustainable habits around physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management. They also developed skills to manage stress, stay motivated, and overcome common lifestyle challenges. They gained practical tools for tracking food and activity, making healthier choices at home and away, and maintaining long-term wellness and heart health. Here is what the participants accomplished all together:

  • 8 participants completed the year-long program at an 85% attendance rate.
  • Participants lost a total of 68 lbs.
  • They logged 39,091 physical activity minutes and enjoyed walking and dancing!
  • Participants reported being more physically active, focusing on balanced meals, and reducing their overall stress levels.


Said Esperanza’s Maryann Salib, DO, “Attending the graduation, I was touched to see how the group had bonded over the past year. I am so grateful for our partnership with the Health Federation of Philadelphia that allowed us to provide this space of support, learning, and community for our patients working on preventing diabetes.”

American Heart Month


February is American Heart Month, a time when all people are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health. Heart disease is very common. In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups. In 2023, almost 1 in every 4 deaths in the United States was caused by heart disease. For more information and resources on heart health, visit the CDC website.


Here at Esperanza we value whole health—not only through our services in the exam room, but also by providing resources such as our Healthy Recipes, and through initiatives such as our Lifestyle Medicine Program that focuses on heart-healthy lifestyle changes including diet, exercise, and stress management. New classes for both current Esperanza Health Center patients and for community members who are not patients will be offered this spring and summer.

We Are Now Accepting New

Medical and Dental Patients!

Esperanza has been able to grow its capacity to see patients! We are now accepting new medical patients at our Hunting Park and Kensington sites, and new dental patients at our Dental Clinic (Kensington site). 


  • Primary medical care for children and adults
  • Prenatal and women’s health care
  • Dental care for children and adults


To register as a medical patient, please call 215-302-3600 and select Option 1 for scheduling, then Option 3 for new patients.


To register as a dental patient, please call 215-302-3156 and select Option 2 for new patients.


We hope you will join the Esperanza family and become a patient!

Join a Mission-Driven Christian

Healthcare Ministry!

Whether it’s in administration or our clinical teams, we’re always looking to grow! We are seeking qualified, dedicated individuals for open positions, including:


  • Clerical Assistant
  • Dental Assistant
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  • Associate Finance Director
  • Director of Behavioral Health and Social Services
  • Behavior Health Consultant
  • To view other current openings, click here


These jobs are a wonderful way for individuals in your community to use their gifts in service, joining a team where faith and purpose intersect every day. If you know someone who may be a good fit, we’d be grateful if you would share this link or pass along these opportunities. Thank you for helping us connect mission-aligned people with meaningful work in our community!

ADDITIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

GIVE THE GIFT OF HOPE!


Support Esperanza Health Center by giving the gift of high-quality physical, social, emotional, and spiritual care to our patients, programming at our community wellness center, The CORE, and more! Your generous gift will enable us to provide a wide range of integrated services for our patients and others in our North Philadelphia communities, without regard for insurance status or ability to pay. Join us in extending compassionate care to those in need!


VOLUNTEER IN YOUR COMMUNITY!


Interested in volunteering? We have several volunteer opportunities to serve our neighbors this winter - please consider joining us! Volunteers like you help make community events like these possible!


Currently, we have multiple spots available for our 2026 Hub4Health Resource Fairs and Baby Goods Exchanges.


Click below to view our current volunteer openings and sign-up!


OUR MISSION


Compelled by the love of God in Christ Jesus, in cooperation with the Church and others, Esperanza Health Center is a multi-cultural ministry providing holistic healthcare to the Latino and underserved communities of Philadelphia.


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