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Serving Humanity to Honor God
We are broadening the definition of health care beyond providing high-quality care when people are sick to address systemic inequities so that more people can reach their full potential for health and life.
[McAllen, TX, January 29, 2026] — Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. and Blue Zones, the global leader in longevity research and community well-being transformation, announced a partnership to launch Blue Zones IgniteTM assessment in the Rio Grande Valley. The effort begins with an in-depth readiness and feasibility assessment of the Rio Grande Valley that will help determine how to make it a healthier place to live, work, play, pray and enjoy longer, better lives.
Blue Zones uses an evidence-based, environmental approach to making healthy choices easier in the places where people spend the most time. Blue Zones will work with Methodist Healthcare Ministries and other community leaders to conduct an in-depth readiness and feasibility assessment to determine how to make it a healthier place to live, work, and thrive. Together with the community, the Blue Zones team will assess readiness and build a plan for change.
“Our mission has always been to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve, and bringing Blue Zones Ignite to the cities of Edinburg, McAllen, Mission and Pharr is a powerful step toward that vision,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “This initiative will help us work hand-in-hand with local partners and residents to create environments that make healthy choices easier and more accessible—so that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential for health and life.”
The Blue Zones Approach
Blue Zones employs a proven solution in collaboration with communities to help people live better and longer lives. The company’s work is based on research and principles developed by founder Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow and New York Times bestselling author, who identified the cultures of the world – or blue zones – with the healthiest, longest-living populations.
The Blue Zones approach focuses on the largest determinant of health: the environment in which we live. Instead of focusing solely on individual behavior change, Blue Zones helps communities make permanent and semi-permanent changes to policies, systems, streets, surroundings, and social networks so it's easier for residents to eat wisely, move naturally, and connect more with others as they move throughout their day. By improving the Life Radius®—the area close to home where most Americans spend 90% of their lives—Blue Zones transformations have been able to move the needle dramatically in improving overall population health and well-being. Participating communities have seen double-digit drops in obesity and smoking rates, economic investment in downtown corridors, grant funding awards to support policies and programs to improve health equity, and measurable savings in healthcare costs.
Ben Leedle, CEO of Blue Zones and Co-founder of Blue Zones Project, said: “Launching Blue Zones Ignite in the Rio Grande Valley is an exciting moment, and it’s only possible because of the leadership of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. They have a bold vision for strengthening well‑being across South Texas, and we’re excited to partner with them as this work begins.”
The Blue Zones expert team will connect with local leaders and organizations to begin immediate work assessing the strengths, needs, and challenges that residents are facing today. Blue Zones will then create a policy-focused transformation plan that, once implemented, can drive widespread improvements in well-being, reductions in healthcare costs, and improve economic vitality in the region.
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About Blue Zones
Blue Zones employs evidence-based ways to help people live better, longer. The company's work is rooted in explorations and research done by founder and National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner in blue zones regions around the world, where people live extraordinarily long and/or happy lives. The original research and findings were released in Buettner's bestselling books The Blue Zones Solution, The Blue Zones of Happiness, The Blue Zones, Thrive, and Blue Zones Kitchen—all published by National Geographic books. A hit docuseries, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, was released on Netflix in 2023. Using original Blue Zones research, Blue Zones works with cities and counties to make healthy choices easier through permanent and semi-permanent changes to our human-made surroundings. Participating communities have experienced double-digit drops in obesity and tobacco use and have saved millions of dollars in healthcare costs. For more information, visit www.bluezones.com.
About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of health care by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.
[McAllen, TX, January 29, 2026] — Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. and Blue Zones, the global leader in longevity research and community well-being transformation, announced a partnership to launch Blue Zones IgniteTM assessment in the Rio Grande Valley. The effort begins with an in-depth readiness and feasibility assessment of the Rio Grande Valley that will help determine how to make it a healthier place to live, work, play, pray and enjoy longer, better lives.
Blue Zones uses an evidence-based, environmental approach to making healthy choices easier in the places where people spend the most time. Blue Zones will work with Methodist Healthcare Ministries and other community leaders to conduct an in-depth readiness and feasibility assessment to determine how to make it a healthier place to live, work, and thrive. Together with the community, the Blue Zones team will assess readiness and build a plan for change.
“Our mission has always been to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve, and bringing Blue Zones Ignite to the cities of Edinburg, McAllen, Mission and Pharr is a powerful step toward that vision,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “This initiative will help us work hand-in-hand with local partners and residents to create environments that make healthy choices easier and more accessible—so that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential for health and life.”
The Blue Zones Approach
Blue Zones employs a proven solution in collaboration with communities to help people live better and longer lives. The company’s work is based on research and principles developed by founder Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow and New York Times bestselling author, who identified the cultures of the world – or blue zones – with the healthiest, longest-living populations.
The Blue Zones approach focuses on the largest determinant of health: the environment in which we live. Instead of focusing solely on individual behavior change, Blue Zones helps communities make permanent and semi-permanent changes to policies, systems, streets, surroundings, and social networks so it's easier for residents to eat wisely, move naturally, and connect more with others as they move throughout their day. By improving the Life Radius®—the area close to home where most Americans spend 90% of their lives—Blue Zones transformations have been able to move the needle dramatically in improving overall population health and well-being. Participating communities have seen double-digit drops in obesity and smoking rates, economic investment in downtown corridors, grant funding awards to support policies and programs to improve health equity, and measurable savings in healthcare costs.
Ben Leedle, CEO of Blue Zones and Co-founder of Blue Zones Project, said: “Launching Blue Zones Ignite in the Rio Grande Valley is an exciting moment, and it’s only possible because of the leadership of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. They have a bold vision for strengthening well‑being across South Texas, and we’re excited to partner with them as this work begins.”
The Blue Zones expert team will connect with local leaders and organizations to begin immediate work assessing the strengths, needs, and challenges that residents are facing today. Blue Zones will then create a policy-focused transformation plan that, once implemented, can drive widespread improvements in well-being, reductions in healthcare costs, and improve economic vitality in the region.
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About Blue Zones
Blue Zones employs evidence-based ways to help people live better, longer. The company's work is rooted in explorations and research done by founder and National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner in blue zones regions around the world, where people live extraordinarily long and/or happy lives. The original research and findings were released in Buettner's bestselling books The Blue Zones Solution, The Blue Zones of Happiness, The Blue Zones, Thrive, and Blue Zones Kitchen—all published by National Geographic books. A hit docuseries, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, was released on Netflix in 2023. Using original Blue Zones research, Blue Zones works with cities and counties to make healthy choices easier through permanent and semi-permanent changes to our human-made surroundings. Participating communities have experienced double-digit drops in obesity and tobacco use and have saved millions of dollars in healthcare costs. For more information, visit www.bluezones.com.
About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of health care by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.
UPDATED: Conditions have improved, and MHM-owned facilities will reopen for operations beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27.
San Antonio (January 24, 2026) Due to expected inclement weather, all San Antonio area Methodist Healthcare Ministries facilities will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026. This includes: Wesley Health & Wellness Center; Dixon Health & Wellness Center; George RicksSchool Based Health Center at Schertz Elementary, Wesley Nurse sites, Northwest Center Office, and the Corporate Office. Patients with existing appointments for Monday will be rescheduled.
Operations outside of the San Antonio area will follow the guidelines of local school districts. Please call your local Methodist Healthcare Ministries contact for guidance on programs and services.
All operations are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, January 27, pending safe commute conditions.
The safety of our patients, clients, and team members is of utmost importance. Visit mhm.org for the latest updates.
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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners ofMethodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economicmobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals and families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.
San Antonio, TX (January 14, 2026) – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) is launching The Roots of Well-Being, a new podcast series debuting on major streaming platforms. Building upon the organization’s core mission of serving humanity to honor God, the first season delves into the voices of humanity, and the influential role they play in creating solutions that improve the health and well-being of communities across South Texas.
Hosted by former news anchor and reporter, Steven Cavazos, the series invites audiences into meaningful conversations with individuals and organizations who partner with MHM to co-design, co-create, and co-evaluate changes that positively impact their communities. Each episode offers a deeper understanding of how lived experience can lead to transformation.
“Methodist Healthcare Ministries has a deep commitment to listening and learning from those who truly understand their communities. Our team members recognize that, in an effort to advance the health and well-being of individuals and families across our service area, the right voices need to be at the table. We are thrilled that The Roots of Well-Being will bring these insightful conversations to a wider audience,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries.
Here is what to expect for episode 1 of The Roots of Well-Being: Connecting with Communities:
In the premiere episode, Cavazos sits down with two of MHM’s Community Council Members from the Rio Grande Valley. Community Council members serve as a bridge between the communities MHM serves and its Board of Directors. Their lived experience provides unique perspectives and insights that are shared with the Board, influencing how decisions are made and carried out. Their stories offer a first-hand look at how community insight can lead to collaboration and powerful partnerships. Audiences will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of elevating local voices in decisions that can influence health outcomes.
Release Dates:
- Part 1: January 14, 2026
- Part 2: January 28, 2026
To watch the first episode, click here.
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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of health care by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.
San Antonio (December 9, 2024) – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. and Methodist Healthcare are bringing holiday magic to families in need for the 13th consecutive year with their beloved Christmas Tree Giveaway. More than 150 beautifully decorated Christmas trees and 60 festive wreaths will brighten homes across San Antonio—thanks to the creativity and generosity of Methodist Healthcare team members.
This year’s celebration featured an extra dose of excitement with a special assist from the San Antonio Spurs, as their staff joined the festivities to make the season even brighter.
The event took place Tuesday, December 9, at Wesley Health & Wellness Center, transformed into a dazzling Winter Wonderland where families selected their trees—each thoughtfully decorated by Methodist Healthcare staff from hospitals across the city.
“This annual tradition is one of our team members’ favorite activities because they get to see the smiles on the faces of families as they pick their tree for the year,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “These days, it’s even more important to spread charity and cheer to those in our community who need it most.”
Since 2012, Methodist Healthcare hospitals have competed in a spirited tree-decorating contest, with the all of the creations—and wreaths—donated and delivered to Wesley Health & Wellness Center for distribution. Participating facilities include: Methodist Hospital, Methodist Children’s Hospital, Methodist Hospital | Landmark, Methodist Hospital | Metropolitan, Methodist Hospital | Northeast, Methodist Hospital | Specialty and Transplant, Methodist Hospital | Stone Oak, Methodist Hospital | Texsan, Methodist Hospital | Westover Hills, and the Methodist Healthcare Office.
“This meaningful event is a wonderful way for both Methodist Healthcare Ministries and Methodist Healthcare to live out our shared mission of Serving Humanity to Honor God,” said Palmira Arellano, Vice President of Community Engagement for Methodist Healthcare. “It’s truly uplifting to see the tradition of gifting trees and wreaths continue to grow, as it is a reflection of our staff’s commitment to caring for our community beyond the walls of our hospitals.”
Families receiving trees were selected from Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ programs, including Parenting, Recreation & Enrichment, Behavioral Health, and Wesley Nurse services. While waiting, families enjoyed the Winter Wonderland experience complete with holiday décor and festive activities. This year, Cowboy the Rhino, a mascot from the San Antonio also joined the fun to help spread some holiday cheer.
As the Official Healthcare System of the San Antonio Spurs, Methodist Healthcare partnered with the Spurs to spread even more holiday cheer. The Coyote, Spurs Hype Squad, and staff were on-site to greet families and help load trees.
“The holidays are a time when our community leans into hope and connection. By sharing these trees with families across our community, we hope to offer a small gift that brings joy,” said Patricia Mejia, Chief Impact & Inclusion Officer at Spurs Sports & Entertainment. “It is a privilege to stand alongside Methodist each year as we work together to help brighten homes and honor the spirit of care that defines San Antonio.”
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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals and families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.
About Methodist Healthcare
Methodist Healthcare is a 50-50 co-ownership between Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc., South Texas’ largest non-public funding source of community health care for uninsured patients; and HCA Healthcare, the nation’s leading provider of healthcare services. This creates a unique partnership that ensures Methodist Healthcare Ministries continues to benefit the community by providing quality care to all and charitable care when needed. Methodist Healthcare has invested $2.18 billion in the community over the past 10 years. With 30 facilities, including eleven hospitals and ten freestanding emergency departments, over 832,191 inpatients and outpatients and 506,488 ER patients are served annually. The Methodist Healthcare team is comprised of 15,000, making the system the third largest private employer in San Antonio. Methodist Healthcare provides the largest array of medical services in the region, including neurosurgery, cardiovascular services, oncology and women’s services. And with 25 surgical robots, Methodist Healthcare is a national leader in robotic surgery, as well as home to the nation’s largest Live Donor Kidney Transplant program. Visit SAHealth.comto learn more.
About Spurs Sports & Entertainment
Spurs Sports & Entertainment (SS&E) is a value-based and community-centric sports and entertainment company that provides premier live and global digital experiences for fans across a portfolio of three teams and several first-class venues in South Texas – all supported by a staff of more than 1,000 full and part-time employees. SS&E owns and operates the San Antonio Spurs (NBA), Austin Spurs (NBA G League), and San Antonio FC (USL), as well as manages the day-to-day operations of the Frost Bank Center, The Rock at La Cantera, Toyota Field and Ricos STAR Soccer Complex. The SS&E investor group is led by Managing Partner Peter J. Holt.
