CAFÉ highlights health care resources through cultural events
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WENATCHEE — The third Saturday of every month, CAFÉ hosts a community event aimed at advancing community growth through education, with a different focus each month. For May, the focus will be on health programs available regardless of immigration status, as well as highlighting, “diverse abilities,” referring to individuals with extra physical and mental needs. The event takes place from noon to 3 p.m. at at 766 Mission St. in Wenatchee on Saturday.
“We want to make sure we have all the resources that are out there available and can be shared with the community that they may not know about,” said Gabby Torres, community engagement coordinator for CAFÉ.
CAFÉ is collaborating with various organizations, including Nuestras Raíces, a grantee from Washington State Commerce and the Community Health Plan of Washington, to gain a better understanding of new Medicaid programs and other healthcare resources.
This year, the Washington state legislature approved more than $28 million to expand Medicaid and Apple Health programs. New rules allow people to enroll, regardless of immigrant status. The application for Apple Health is currently open, and coverage will begin on July 1.
This month, CAFÉ is focusing on diverse abilities through a pachanga, mercadito and interactive events. The theme of the event will revolve around the ocean, featuring a quiet ocean sensory room equipped with sensory input tools designed to help individuals calm down in overstimulated environments, such as markets.
Additionally, according to CAFÉ, the event will celebrate Washington’s rich Latino culture. In Latin culture, pachanga is known as a lively party filled with music, dancing and food. Alongside the pachanga, there will also be a mercadito, where local vendors will sell handmade crafts and snacks.
In the past, CAFÉ hosted community events centered around healthcare education while celebrating Latino culture.
“It’s a big celebration this event will be for, this is an event for children and events for all ages, bringing the whole family it will be a lot of fun,” Torres said.
Renee Diaz reports for NWBP in collaboration with The Wenatchee World and the Murrow College of Communication Local News Fellowship Program.