The state-of-the-art facility triples patient capacity and brings dental care, food access, and social services to one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods
In a neighborhood where the scent of cafecito mingles with the rhythm of salsa and every mural tells a story of resilience, a new story is unfolding—one grounded in community health and hope. On Friday, October 17, healthcare nonprofit Care Resource officially opened the doors to its brand-new Little Havana health center, marking a major milestone in accessible healthcare for South Florida. The event drew local officials, medical leaders, and neighbors alike, all gathering to celebrate a new era of inclusive, comprehensive care in one of Miami’s most iconic neighborhoods.
From expanded medical and pediatric services to the first-ever Food for Life Network pantry in Little Havana, this new facility goes beyond checkups—it's designed to uplift the entire community.
A one-stop wellness destination in the heart of Little Havana
Little Havana is the cultural soul of Miami—a place that pulses with music, flavor, and fierce neighborhood pride. But like many historically underserved areas, access to affordable healthcare has long been a challenge. With this new facility, Care Resource is flipping the script by investing in solutions built for and by the community.
The health center is located in the heart of Little Havana, designed from the ground up with accessibility and patient experience in mind. This includes tripled patient capacity, which means shorter wait times and more appointments for locals who often struggle to find timely care.
The range of services offered is expansive:
- Primary medical care for all ages
- Pediatric care with child-friendly exam rooms
- Enhanced dental care, with 10 dental chairs and pediatric dental stations
- An on-site pharmacy, making prescription access more immediate and affordable
- Behavioral health support, including therapy and counseling
- A full-service Food for Life Network pantry to combat food insecurity head-on
- Expanded case management services for housing, transportation, and crisis needs
“This center is a promise to meet people where they are, with dignity, compassion, and care,” said Dr. Steven Santiago, Care Resource’s Chief Medical Officer. “We’re not just treating symptoms—we’re serving the whole person.”
For residents of Coral Gables, Allapattah, Flagami, and nearby communities, this means care that’s closer, more efficient, and deeply rooted in cultural understanding.
More than a building—a bold statement of equity and community
The Care Resource ribbon-cutting ceremony was more than symbolic. It represented the culmination of years of planning, advocacy, and investment in one of Miami’s most resilient communities. City of Miami Commissioner Damian Pardo, a longtime advocate for equitable services, praised the facility’s role in addressing healthcare disparities head-on.
“This isn’t just about bricks and mortar,” Commissioner Pardo said. “This is about building trust, offering hope, and supporting the long-term health of our neighbors.”
One of the most moving parts of the event came from Karin Sabey, Care Resource’s recently appointed Chief Executive Officer. “This new health center is a reflection of our core belief—that people come first,” Sabey said. “And here in Little Havana, that means listening deeply, acting with compassion, and building a stronger community together.”
Sabey described the facility as a "one-stop wellness destination", making it easier for families, seniors, and working professionals to access multiple services in a single, supportive location. Whether it's a mom bringing in her child for a dental checkup, or a senior refilling their prescriptions, the goal is clear: make healthcare seamless and accessible to all, regardless of income, language, or insurance status.
One of the standout features of the new Care Resource center is the Food for Life Network pantry—a first for Little Havana. In a community where nearly 1 in 5 residents face food insecurity, this resource is a game changer. Patients can now receive nutritious food, groceries, and fresh produce right after a health visit, helping ensure that treatment plans are supported by access to real nourishment.
In addition, Care Resource has tripled its case management staff, enabling the team to assist with everything from housing applications to mental health referrals and crisis intervention. This approach reflects a growing understanding in public health: health outcomes are not just about medicine—they're about addressing the full spectrum of challenges people face in their everyday lives.
“Health isn’t just something that happens in a clinic,” said Dr. Santiago. “It happens in our homes, on our plates, and in the decisions we’re empowered to make.”
A space that reflects the community it serves
From the moment visitors walk through the front doors, they’re greeted by bilingual staff who speak English and Spanish, signage that’s accessible and welcoming, and a physical space designed to feel open and inclusive.
The architecture of the new Care Resource center honors Little Havana’s personality—with bright colors, local artwork, and comfortable waiting areas that don’t feel cold or clinical. Even the pharmacy is designed with transparency in mind, allowing patients to ask questions and engage directly with pharmacists who understand their cultural and medical needs.
And because Care Resource operates as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), services are offered on a sliding scale, ensuring that no one is turned away for inability to pay.
Little Havana has long been a symbol of cultural pride, activism, and perseverance. With the opening of this health center, the neighborhood adds another legacy to its story: one of health equity and collective care.
Whether you're a local resident looking for pediatric services, a business owner needing care for your employees, or a community leader advocating for better outcomes, this Care Resource center belongs to all of us.
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