Care Resource opens new 45,000 sq. ft. health center in Little Havana

Major expansion doubles patient capacity, enhances services for uninsured families

Little Havana just gained a vital new resource in community health. On May 27, 2025, Care Resource Community Health Centers, Inc., officially opened the doors of its newly expanded Little Havana Health Center, a modern 45,000-square-foot facility at 1800 SW 1st Street. This new clinic is a huge deal as it more than doubles how many patients they can see, getting ready to serve up to 20,000 people every single year.

For so many families in Little Havana, where getting good healthcare has always been a struggle, this Care Resource expansion really could be life-changing. Think about it: almost one in three folks here don't have health insurance, and close to 30% live in poverty. This upgraded center is finally bringing some much-needed relief to people who've faced so many roadblocks to getting care.

Comprehensive care all in one place

Care Resource’s Little Havana location now offers a wide range of essential health services, from primary and pediatric care to dental, mental health, and substance use treatment. The new Care Resource facility also includes an on-site pharmacy and lab, making it easier for patients to get the care they need without traveling between multiple providers.

The added infrastructure dramatically boosts capacity: adult exam rooms have increased from 7 to 18, pediatric rooms from 3 to 8, and the dental wing now features 10 chairs; two dedicated solely to children.

“This facility allows us to meet growing demand without sacrificing the quality of care,” said Dr. Steven Santiago, Interim CEO and Chief Medical Officer. “We’re not just expanding space; we’re expanding access, compassion, and community trust.”

Bridging the healthcare divide in Little Havana

The expansion is a critical step toward addressing systemic health disparities. Little Havana has long faced barriers such as limited transportation options, a shortage of providers, and a general lack of continuous care. Bringing all services under one roof allows Care Resource to make care more convenient and less fragmented for local families. Instead of navigating different providers, patients can now receive consistent, well-coordinated care in a single place.

The center also includes expanded case management, behavioral health services, and chronic illness support, offering personalized help for issues like diabetes and high blood pressure, which have impacted this community for far too long.

Fortifying our local health system

Beyond just improving local access, this center plays a strategic role in easing the burden on nearby emergency rooms and hospitals. With easier access to early screenings, preventive care, and follow-up services, residents are far less likely to put off treatment or end up in the ER for non-emergencies.

According to national studies, every dollar invested in community-based care results in nearly two dollars saved in avoidable hospital costs which is a win for both families and the broader healthcare system.

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