As summer arrives, I’m proud to share how HealthFirst continues to live our mission—providing high-quality, compassionate care that begins well before a patient ever enters the exam room.

In this issue, you’ll read about our outstanding Benefits Department Navigators, who help patients access the health insurance coverage they need. Their knowledge and cultural understanding make a real difference—one recent patient praised a staff member for being “patient and very knowledgeable” while assisting with a MassHealth application. This is just one example of the heart our team brings to every interaction.

You’ll also meet Ana Paula De Santana Chagas, who serves as both a Medical Interpreter and Medical Assistant. Ana’s dedication and growth embody what HealthFirst is all about—helping our community, one person at a time.

This June, we’re proud to recognize Men’s Health Awareness Month by encouraging regular screenings and conversations around men’s physical and mental health. If you or a loved one has been putting off care, we’re here to support you with compassion and ease.

Don’t forget—the Fall River Farmers Market is back every Wednesday outside our center. Come by between 2:00–5:00 PM for fresh produce, community connection, and healthy choices. We accept SNAP/HIP, WIC, and more!

And mark your calendars now for the 3rd Annual Block Party Palooza on August 2^nd !

Thank you for being part of the HealthFirst family. We are here for you—today and every day—with heart.

Warmly,

Lisa

Staff/Provider Spotlight

Ana Paula De Santana Chagas

Ana joined HealthFirst as a Medical Interpreter in September 2019 after working in a Brockton hospital for 13 years. In August 2022, Ana completed the online Medical Assistant program through Career Steps and now works as a Medical Interpreter and Medical Assistant.

Ana says, "I enjoy both of my roles at HealthFirst. I feel accomplished at the end of each day knowing I was able to help someone in the community in one way or another".

Men's Health Awareness

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health issues and encouraging early detection and treatment among men and boys.

At HealthFirst Family Care Center, we’re focusing on promoting regular screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and mental health. Many men delay care, so we’re here to help make access easier, conversations more comfortable, and care more compassionate. Let’s work together to break the stigma and support the health of our fathers, brothers, sons, and friends.

Visit the HealthFirst website for information on screenings and support.

Your health matters: to you, to us, and to those who love you. 

Fall River Farmer's Market

Make sure to swing by HealthFirst and pick up your fresh produce every Wednesday from 2:00-5:00 pm starting June 11, 2025!

Accepting SNAP/HIP, cash, credit cards, and WIC/Senior Farmers Market coupons!

Questions? Contact Laura (508) 989-7759.

Calendar of Events

MyChart Tips

Say goodbye to phone calls and paperwork. With MyChart, managing your healthcare is just a tap away! View test results, message your provider, schedule appointments, request prescription refills, and access your health records anytime, anywhere!

Take Charge of your health - visit the HealthFirst website and sign up with MyChart today!

The Home Project provides families and individuals in transition with free non-furniture, gently loved bedroom, bathroom and kitchen items necessary to live with comfort and dignity.

The Home Project is open by appointment for both clients and donors. Schedule an appointment by visiting the Home Project website.

HealthFirst Family Care Center, Inc. is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that receives some funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Other payment sources for the many services we provide include Medicaid and Medicare. Programs and services offered at HealthFirst are designed to meet the health care needs of everyone in our community, regardless of their ability to pay. As a tax-exempt, non-profit organization, HealthFirst relies on support from corporate, public, and other funding sources to fulfill our mission of providing quality care.