Methodist Healthcare Ministries Partners with St. Mary’s University School of Law to Protect Consumers with Housing Issues 

Steven Cavazos on August 25, 2025

San Antonio (August 25, 2025) – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) announced a $1.26 million grant to St. Mary’s University, powering the School of Law’s Real Estate Clinic and Consumer Protection Clinic through 2026. This strategic partnership tackles a critical community need: promoting housing stability and strengthening consumer protection by delivering vital legal assistance and education to limited-income residents across San Antonio and South Texas. 

Safe and affordable housing stands as a fundamental social determinant of health, a key vital condition essential to family health and well-being. Housing insecurity creates a devastating ripple effect on quality of life, as mounting costs from eviction and relocation drain resources needed for basic necessities like food and health care. The consequences add up quickly: evictions damage credit scores, making future rentals nearly impossible, while forced relocations often push families into deteriorating neighborhoods. Homeowners facing foreclosure teeter on the edge of homelessness. Children bear a particularly heavy burden, as frequent moves disrupt their education and development, while the chronic stress of housing instability takes a severe toll on mental health across all family members. Stabilizing housing for both tenants and low-income homeowners emerges as a critical strategy for building healthier communities. 

“Ensuring that our patients and clients have a safe and affordable place to live can have a positive impact on their health and well-being as they will be able to focus their time and energy on reaching their fullest potential for health and life,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of MHM. “Through this partnership with St. Mary’s, we are excited to not only address a critical social determinant of health for many in our community but also contribute to the training and development of future legal professionals who can provide the guidance and counsel clients desperately need.” 

MHM currently operates a groundbreaking Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) in collaboration with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA), serving its patients and clients with integrated care. This innovative partnership creates a direct pipeline, allowing MHM to refer patients seamlessly to the St. Mary’s University School of Law’s Real Estate Clinic and Consumer Protection Clinic. The MLP’s mission centers on promoting housing stability through comprehensive legal assistance and community education targeting low-income residents throughout San Antonio and South Texas. 

Through this collaboration, law students will deliver hands-on legal representation to clients who would otherwise face the legal system without counsel. These emerging attorneys will receive intensive training in housing-related legal advocacy, creating a multiplier effect that increases pro bono representation capacity both immediately and for years to come. The clinic will also develop accessible, client-friendly educational materials that translate complex legal concepts into clear, and actionable guidance, reaching potential clients before they reach a housing crisis point. This comprehensive approach promises to dramatically expand pro bono legal services for this chronically underserved population. 

“St. Mary’s University is grateful for both the investment being made by Methodist Healthcare Ministries and the opportunity to join this partner organization in supporting those who experience a variety of housing crises,” said Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., President of St. Mary’s University. “This gift ensures our School of Law Clinics can continue this important work, furthering St. Mary’s University’s mission as a Catholic Marianist University to serve the common good.” 

The partnership extends beyond traditional clinic walls, as the Law Clinics will forge strategic community partnerships to serve clients in rural and underserved areas across the region. Students will engage in intensive field work, traveling directly to meet clients and dismantle legal barriers where they live. Additionally, the Law Clinics will produce impactful scholarly research and presentations documenting the partnership’s outcomes, creating a roadmap for similar initiatives and demonstrating the transformative potential of this integrated approach to legal aid and community health. 

The partnership will deliver services through December 2026. 

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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 St. Mary’s University 

St. Mary’s University, founded in 1852, is the first institution of higher learning in San Antonio and the oldest Catholic university in the Southwest. It offers 75 programs, including doctoral and law programs. Its vision, as a Catholic and Marianist liberal arts institution, is to become one of the finest private universities in the region, a gateway for graduates to professional lives as ethical leaders in Texas, the nation and the world. 

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Methodist Healthcare Ministries Announces the Addition of Two New Board Members to its Board of Directors  

Steven Cavazos on August 11, 2025

San Antonio (July 31, 2025) – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) announced the addition of two new members to its board of directors.  These individuals will help guide the nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to improving the well-being of the least served since 1995. The new board members began their three-year term on July 1.    

“We are excited to welcome these outstanding individuals to our board where they’ll join an incredible group of caring servants, equally committed to helping this organization advance health equity across our 74-county service area ,” said Mike Porter, Chair of the Board of Directors for Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “I look forward to seeing the impact they will make on this organization as we continue to fulfill our mission of ‘Serving Humanity to Honor God.’”  

The two new board members include:  

  • Larry Wilson Howard, Real Estate Development 
  • Dr. Pamela E. Ray, Director of Service Learning & Career Development at Texas Lutheran University 

MHM board members play a vital role in setting the direction and guiding the organization to advance a more level playing field for health in 74 counties across Texas. Since 1995, Methodist Healthcare Ministries has provided more than $1.66 billion in health care services through its clinical programs, as well as through partnerships, and is one of the largest private funding sources for community health care to low-income families and the uninsured in South Texas.  

As a 50-50 co-owner of Methodist Healthcare, MHM board members play an important oversight role in the governance of the healthcare system ensuring it provides quality care to all regardless of ability to pay. The earnings from the co-ownership of the health system allows MHM to fund efforts that strengthen communities and families, provide clinical care to the uninsured and the economically disadvantaged, and promote a more level playing field for healthy living—now and for generations to come.  

Board members serve three-year terms and may serve up to three consecutive terms. In addition to serving on the general board, they also serve on one standing committee, such as the Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Governance Committee, Mission Committee, Investment Committee and Operations Committee. The board currently has 26 regular board directors and may have up to 27 at a given time. The board bylaws also dictate that at least 60 percent of the regular directors be members of The United Methodist Church.  

“At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, we are broadening the definition of health care as we continue our efforts to advance health equity throughout the communities we serve,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “These new board members will bless us with the leadership and the unique talents they will impart in the coming years, as we strive to improve the lives of the least served so all have an opportunity to thrive.”  

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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. 

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Methodist Healthcare Ministries Receives 2025 MLP Champion of the Year Award from Texas Medical Legal Partnership Coalition

Steven Cavazos on August 6, 2025

Round Rock, TX (July 29, 2025) – When healthcare meets legal advocacy, lives change. Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) has proven this powerful combination works, earning the organization the 2025 MLP Champion of the Year Award from the Texas Medical-Legal Partnership Coalition (TxMLPC). The award was presented during the TxMLPC’s 2025 MLP Conference and Annual Member Meeting held May 8-9.

“Our Medical Legal Partnership program has made incredible progress in a short amount of time and is now providing our patients and clients with access to a valuable legal resource that can help them resolve critical, life-altering issues that can impact their health and well-being,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We are incredibly proud of our policy & advocacy team that is spearheading this effort and grateful to the TxMLPC for the recognition and leadership in this area.”  

Legal problems can make people sick. Housing disputes, benefit denials, and workplace issues don’t just create stress, they create health crises. MHM’s Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) program integrates the unique expertise of Texas RioGrande Legal Aide’s (TRLA) attorneys into the organization’s Dixon Health & Wellness Center and Wesley Health & Wellness Center. These advocates work hand-in-hand with clinicians, case managers, and social workers to address problems at the root of health inequities that contribute to poor health, as well as population health inequities. In the past year, this service has been expanded to support patients in the Coastal Bend and Mesquite County regions.

MHM partnered with TRLA to provide our patients with an experienced and dedicated legal team, fully integrated within MHM’s clinical locations for on-site service and coordination. “It has been a pleasure partnering with MHM to expand access to justice to some of the most medically and financially vulnerable people in our state. MHM has pioneered a stronger, more effective and sustainable Medical-Legal Partnership model that has allowed our legal advocates to coordinate their efforts with medical providers in a way that has been incredibly impactful,” said Robert Doggett, Executive Director of Texas RioGrande Legal Aid.

MHM’s MLP program helps staff provide comprehensive care to patients, ensuring they achieve their best possible medical outcomes by removing obstacles to a healthy life that are outside of their doctor’s office. Since its inception, the MLP program has managed more than 2,000 referrals from MHM providers for patients facing barriers that require legal advocacy. The MLP team assists MHM patients with almost any civil legal issue they might be facing that could hamper their health or access to medical care, whether that might be securing stable housing by fighting unfair evictions, appealing erroneous denials of insurance, securing protective orders for those facing violence at home, or ensuring patients obtain and understand their advanced directives, guardianship plans, or face any other legal needs.  

“The Texas Medical-Legal Partnership Coalition is proud to announce Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. as our 2025 MLP Champion of the Year,” said Keegan Warren, JD, LLM, President of the TxMLPC Board of Directors. “This esteemed award recognizes their outstanding commitment and significant contributions to advancing medical-legal partnership and improving the health and well-being of Texans. Their dedication to addressing health-harming social needs through integrated healthcare and legal services exemplifies the spirit of the MLP movement.” 

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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.  

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American Heart Association partners with Methodist Healthcare Ministries to teach local youth the life-saving technique of CPR.

Teno Villarreal on July 17, 2025

San Antonio, July 17, 2025 – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. has partnered with the American Heart Association to provide Hands-Only CPR demonstrations during the Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Camp Wesley on July 17th from 1 PM – 4 PM. This initiative is part of AHA’s ongoing commitment to community health and education. 

Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Camp Wesley is held at its Wesley Health & Wellness Center every year and is a beloved summer day program for children and youth ages 6 to 17. This year, 100 campers will add Hands-Only CPR training to the traditional camp activities, all at no cost thanks to generous community support.

“We are so grateful for partners like the American Heart Association, who devote their time to teaching our community–even the smallest members–how to feel calm and prepared in a cardiac emergency,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We are thankful for this partnership and look forward to more opportunities to empowers people in the community to act and respond in the case of an emergency.”

The American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™ movement is to turn bystanders into lifesavers, so that in the event of cardiac emergency anyone, anywhere is prepared and empowered to become a critical link in the chain of survival and provide CPR. Together we can save lives. 

Currently, 70% of Americans feel helpless to act during a cardiac emergency. CPR, especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a person’s chance of survival. We are currently a nation of bystanders that lack the knowledge/confidence to act and save a life.

Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital in the United States. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby. About 90% of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die – in part because CPR is performed less than half the time. 

“These trainings help us get closer to our goal of doubling the survival rate of cardiac arrest by 2030. However, we cannot do it alone,” said Theresa Speiss, executive director of the American Heart Association San Antonio. “We depend on partners like Methodist Healthcare Ministries to help get this vital training into the hands of our community.” 

With a century of lifesaving work, the American Heart Association has grown into the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. A shared focus on cardiovascular health unites the more than 35 million volunteers and supporters to the more than 2,900 employees. To learn more about the organization, visit heart.org/en/affiliates/texas or call 210-810-3100. 

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. 
Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. 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 & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive. To learn more, visit mhm.org. 

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Methodist Healthcare Ministries Answers Call for Relief Efforts Across Texas Hill Country with $3 Million Commitment

Teno Villarreal on July 9, 2025

When tragedy strikes, Texas communities have repeatedly demonstrated an inspiring ability to come together and lift the most vulnerable in the spirit of healing. Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM) is proud to continue serving as part of that tradition by committing $3 million to support flood relief and recovery efforts for those communities impacted by the devastating flooding that occurred this past weekend across Central Texas. 

“In responding to this tragic event, we recognize the needs of those impacted will go beyond meeting their immediate survival needs but also beginning the process of rebuilding lives and communities that were devastated,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We are proud to support critical organizations doing important disaster relief and recovery work, such as those included in this first phase, as they spearhead the work to address these needs. We pledge our commitment to support their ongoing efforts and, together, we can help advance the recovery for the people and places that are grieving and beginning the journey to rebuild a brighter future.” 

Of the $3 million commitment, $1.15 million has been initially allocated to the following organizations to assist in their efforts to provide emergency housing, shelter, operations, grief counseling, and mental health support, as well as to meet any other additional immediate needs identified by these entities and other partners serving the region. The remaining funds will be devoted to addressing the ongoing and emerging needs identified by the community as the disaster response efforts continue.

Click through each organization to learn more:

MHM has regional staff, including Wesley Nurses and community health workers, who are based in the impacted region. In the coming days, weeks and months, MHM will further expand its presence in the affected areas through increased funding, partnerships, and resources to bolster long-term community support efforts. 

As the region journeys toward recovery, MHM will strengthen its commitment and support, bringing healing and comfort wherever it is needed most. 

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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.

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MHM’S Response to Flooding Tragedy in the Texas Hill Country 

Teno Villarreal on July 5, 2025

San Antonio (July 5, 2025) Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ hearts are heavy in the wake of the catastrophic flooding that has impacted its service area. To the families, communities, and partners affected, the organizations stand in solidarity—sharing its profound heartache in the face of devastating loss.  

“Our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to every person living through this tragedy, we mourn with you and are here to walk alongside you in the days to come,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO. 

For those looking to provide immediate local financial support, consider donating to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country: click here to donate. 

In the days, weeks, and months to come, Methodist Healthcare Ministries will continue to strengthen our presence and support in whatever ways are needed to bring healing and comfort.  Through its community-based staff and funding, the organization will work with its partners to do all it can to walk alongside each person, family, and community in recovering from this disaster.  

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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.  

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Methodist Healthcare Ministries Invests $214 Million to Broaden the Definition of Health Care Across Texas 

Teno Villarreal on June 26, 2025

(San Antonio, TX, June 20, 2025) – In 2025, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) is investing nearly $214 million to advance health equity, strengthen communities and drive systemic change across its 74-county service area. This amount includes funding for direct services, community investments, the development of community partnerships, and advocacy initiatives that create a more level playing field for individuals to thrive. The organization’s 2025 commitment represents an increase of 18 percent from its 2024 investment.  

The $213.6 million commitment reflects a strategic focus on advancing health equity, the framework of thought and action guiding the organization’s efforts to address systemic inequities and socio-economic barriers that keep people from living their healthiest lives.

“This investment captures the different ways MHM is advancing health equity across our 74-county service area, so more people and communities have an opportunity to thrive and reach their fullest potential for health and life,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

MHM allocates this investment across various key areas of operations, which include grants, strategic operating initiatives, direct services, and administrative costs that support these areas. This allocation ensures the organization delivers on its mission, vision, and strategy effectively. To ensure its investment has the highest level of community impact, MHM has consistently kept its administrative expenses below 15%, which is required to receive the highest possible score from Charity Navigator for analysis.

Grantmaking:

For 2025, MHM has apportioned $62.5 million to over 185 nonprofit organizations and municipalities. This funding includes $35.6 million in new grants awarded in 2025 through a new open grant cycle MHM initiated in 2024. MHM has made a commitment to support thriving people and places, including supporting organizations that address vital conditions, or the properties and conditions across places that everyone needs to reach their full potential for health and life.

MHM aims to help create and sustain healthy communities by supporting grant recipients addressing one of the following priority areas: access to care, mental and behavioral health; digital equity; food security; housing; education and workforce development. MHM’s grantmaking strives to deepen collaborative efforts, incentivize quality health outcomes, leverage and strengthen health care delivery systems, and promote sustainable systems change. Twenty percent of the grantees this year are first-time recipients. 

An example of MHM’s support for its grantees is evidenced by its support of Alpha Home and Prosumers International, two nonprofit organizations each focused on providing mental and behavioral health care services to patient populations in need of support. 

Alpha Home, a nonprofit organization based in San Antonio providing spiritually-based drug and alcohol treatment services and support to individuals, has been an MHM grantee since 2023. This year, they received $500 thousand to help renovate a 25,000 sq. ft living facility to deliver rehabilitation treatment and case management services for its clients.  

“Recovery should never be out of reach,” said Bill Bailey, President and CEO of Cenikor. “With Alpha Home joining the Cenikor family and support from the Methodist Healthcare Ministries grant, we are taking a bold step to expand from 36 to 80 beds with a new facility. We will also have residential services for men and woman. This strengthens our continuum of care in Bexar County and helps more individuals and families thrive.” 

Prosumers International is a first-time grantee, receiving $70,000 in 2025 to expand its Peer Run Warmline, to provide ongoing training for peer support specialists, and to continue outreach efforts that can increase usage in South Texas. “Because of the MHM grant, we have been able to keep our program in McAllen up and running and we are working to expand the bilingual Peer Run Warmline in collaboration with Hope Family Health Center, an MHM grant recipient from a previous cycle,” said Anna H. Gray, Executive Director of Prosumers International. “It is hard to express in words the impact MHM is having for Prosumers International.”

Strategic Initiatives:

In addition to the annual funding provided by MHM’s Community Investments team to grantees, MHM has allocated nearly $27 million toward strategic initiatives that amplify its overall strategic goals of removing systemic barriers to well-being and improving community-level conditions across its service area. 

These include previously announced initiatives that continue into 2025, such as the South Texas Safe Water Project, the San Antonio GOALS Initiative, the American Cancer Society Methodist Healthcare Ministries Hope Lodge, and the Community Health Accelerator launched with VelocityTX, among others. Each initiative seeks to address vital conditions and root causes of poverty and health inequities that impact the health and well-being of people and communities across Texas. Together with new initiatives to be announced later in 2025 that address food security, economic mobility, rural health and digital equity, these efforts represent MHM’s continued efforts to broaden the definition of health care to address the social and systemic factors that impact individual and community health. 

Direct Services

Creating access to care through the provision of clinical services has always been key to the organization’s mission. MHM operates two San Antonio-based primary health care clinics (Wesley Health & Wellness Center and Dixon Health & Wellness Center) and one school-based health center (George Ricks School-Based Health Center at Schertz Elementary). The clinics address the needs of low-income families and the uninsured by providing services at no cost or on a sliding fee scale. The health care services MHM provides are a cornerstone of its charitable purpose of creating access to care. 

Additionally, MHM offers health care services and programs throughout its 74-county service area including community counseling services, community health worker program, Get FIT prevention program, parenting support groups and care coordination, and referrals through its Wesley Nurse program. 

Since inception, Methodist Healthcare Ministries has provided more than $1.66 billion in health care services through its clinical programs, as well as through partnerships, and is one of the largest private funding sources for community health care to low-income families and the uninsured in South Texas.  

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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. 

Methodist Healthcare Ministries invierte $214 millones para

ampliar la definición de lo que significa la atención sanitaria en Texas

(San Antonio, TX, 20 de junio de 2025) – En 2025, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) invertirá casi $214 millones para promover la equidad en la salud, fortalecer las comunidades e impulsar un cambio sistémico en los 74 condados en los que presta sus servicios. Esta cantidad incluye la financiación de servicios directos, inversiones en la comunidad, el desarrollo de colaboraciones comunitarias e iniciativas de apoyo a la comunidad que crean condiciones más equitativas para que las personas puedan prosperar. El compromiso de la organización para 2025 representa un aumento del 18% con respecto a su inversión de 2024.  

El compromiso de $213.6 millones refleja un enfoque estratégico en el avance de la equidad en la salud, el marco de pensamiento y acción que guía los esfuerzos de la organización para abordar las inequidades sistémicas y las barreras socioeconómicas que impiden a las personas llevar una vida más saludable.  

“Esta inversión refleja las diferentes formas en que MHM está promoviendo la equidad en la salud en los 74 condados en los que prestamos servicio, para que más personas y comunidades tengan la oportunidad de prosperar y alcanzar su máximo potencial en materia de salud y vida”, afirmó Jaime Wesolowski, presidente y director ejecutivo de Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

MHM destina esta inversión a diversas áreas clave de sus operaciones, entre las que se incluyen subvenciones, iniciativas operativas estratégicas, servicios directos y gastos administrativos que respaldan estas áreas. Esta asignación garantiza que la organización cumpla su misión, visión y estrategia de manera eficaz. Para garantizar que su inversión tenga el mayor impacto posible en la comunidad, MHM ha mantenido constantemente sus gastos administrativos por debajo del 15%, lo que es necesario para obtener la máxima puntuación posible en el análisis de Charity Navigator.

Concesión de subvenciones: 

Para 2025, MHM ha asignado $62.5 millones a más de 185 organizaciones sin fines de lucro y municipios. Esta financiación incluye $35.6 millones en nuevas subvenciones concedidas en 2025 a través de un nuevo ciclo de subvenciones abiertas que MHM inició en 2024. MHM se ha comprometido a apoyar a las personas y los lugares prósperos, lo que incluye el apoyo a organizaciones que se ocupan de condiciones vitales, o de las propiedades y condiciones de los lugares que todos necesitan para alcanzar su pleno potencial en materia de salud y vida.

MHM tiene como objetivo ayudar a crear y mantener comunidades saludables mediante el apoyo a los beneficiarios de las subvenciones que abordan una de las siguientes áreas prioritarias: acceso a la salud, salud mental y conductual; equidad digital; seguridad alimentaria; vivienda; educación y desarrollo de la fuerza laboral. Las subvenciones de MHMse esfuerzan por profundizar los esfuerzos de colaboración, incentivar resultados de salud de calidad, aprovechar y fortalecer los sistemas de prestación de atención médica y promover un cambio sostenible en los sistemas. El veinte por ciento de los beneficiarios de este año son receptores por primera vez.

Un ejemplo del apoyo que MHM brinda a sus beneficiarios es el respaldo que ofrece a Alpha Home y Prosumers International, dos organizaciones sin fines de lucro dedicadas a proporcionar servicios de salud mental y conductual a pacientes que necesitan apoyo.

Alpha Home, una organización sin ánimo de lucro con sede en San Antonio que ofrece servicios de tratamiento de la adicción a las drogas y el alcohol basados en la espiritualidad, así como apoyo a las personas, es beneficiaria de MHMdesde 2023. Este año, ha recibido $500,000 para ayudar a renovar unas instalaciones de 2300 pies cuadrados destinadas a ofrecer tratamiento de rehabilitación y servicios de administración de casos a sus clientes.

“La recuperación nunca debe estar fuera del alcance de nadie”, afirmó Bill Bailey, presidente y director ejecutivo de Cenikor. “Con la incorporación de Alpha Home a la familia Cenikor y el apoyo de la subvención de Methodist Healthcare Ministries, estamos dando un paso audaz para ampliar de 36 a 80 camas con una nueva instalación. También ofreceremos servicios residenciales para hombres y mujeres. Esto refuerza nuestra continuidad asistencial en el condado de Bexar y ayuda a más personas y familias a prosperar” 

Prosumers International es una organización que recibe una subvención por primera vez, con $70,000 en 2025 para ampliar su línea de ayuda Peer Run Warmline, para proporcionar formación continua a los especialistas que apoyan a personas con necesidades similares y continuar con las iniciativas de alcance que pueden aumentar su uso en el sur de Texas. “Gracias a la subvención de MHM, hemos podido mantener en funcionamiento nuestro programa en McAllen y estamos trabajando para ampliar la línea de ayuda Peer Run Warmline bilingüe en colaboración con Hope Family Health Center, beneficiario de una subvención de MHM en un ciclo anterior,” afirmó Anna H. Gray, directora ejecutiva de Prosumers International. “Es difícil expresar con palabras el impacto que MHM está teniendo en Prosumers International.”

Iniciativas estratégicas:

Además de la financiación anual que el equipo de Inversiones Comunitarias de MHM proporciona a los beneficiarios, MHM ha destinado casi $27 millones a iniciativas estratégicas que amplían sus objetivos estratégicos generales de eliminar las barreras sistémicas al bienestar y mejorar las condiciones a nivel comunitario en toda su área de servicio.

Entre ellas se incluyen iniciativas anunciadas anteriormente que continuarán en 2025, como el Proyecto de Agua Potable del Sur de Texas,  la Iniciativa GOALS de San Antonio, el Hope Lodge de Methodist Healthcare Ministries de la Sociedad Americana del Cáncer, y el Community Health Accelerator lanzado junto con VelocityTX, entre otras. Cada iniciativa busca abordar las condiciones vitales y las causas fundamentales de la pobreza y las inequidades en materia de salud que afectan a la salud y el bienestar de las personas y las comunidades de Texas. Junto con las nuevas iniciativas que se anunciarán a finales de 2025 y que abordarán la seguridad alimentaria, la movilidad económica, la salud rural y equidad digital, estos esfuerzos representan los continuos esfuerzos de MHM por ampliar la definición de atención sanitaria para abordar los factores sociales y sistémicos que afectan a la salud individual y comunitaria.

Servicios directos

Crear acceso a la atención médica mediante la prestación de servicios clínicos siempre ha sido clave para la misión de la organización. MHM opera dos clínicas de atención médica primaria en San Antonio (Wesley Health & Wellness Center y Dixon Health & Wellness Center) y un centro de salud escolar (George Ricks School-Based Health Center en Schertz Elementary). Las clínicas atienden las necesidades de las familias con bajos ingresos y sin seguro médico, prestando servicios gratuitos o con tarifas variables en función de los ingresos. Los servicios de atención médica que presta MHM son la base de su objetivo benéfico de facilitar el acceso a la atención médica.

Además, MHM ofrece servicios y programas de atención médica en toda su área de servicio, que abarca 74 condados, incluyendo servicios de consejería a la comunidad, un programa de promotores de la salud comunitarios, el programa de prevención Get FIT, grupos de apoyo para padres y coordinación de la atención, y referencias médicas a través de su programa Wesley Nurse.

Desde su creación, Methodist Healthcare Ministries ha proporcionado más de $1.66 mil millones en servicios de atención médica a través de sus programas clínicos, así como a través de asociaciones, y es una de las mayores fuentes de financiación privada para la atención médica comunitaria de familias con bajos ingresos y personas sin seguro médico en el sur de Texas.

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Acerca de Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries amplía la definición de lo que significa la atención médica al brindar atención clínica de bajo costo a quienes no tienen seguro y al apoyar los esfuerzos dirigidos por la comunidad que mejoran las condiciones de vida que causan que las personas se enfermen en primer lugar. Utilizamos nuestras ganancias como copropietarios de Methodist Healthcare para garantizar que las personas económicamente desfavorecidas y sin seguro puedan vivir una vida más saludable. Lo hacemos defendiendo, invirtiendo y brindando acceso a atención clínica de calidad y abordando los factores que afectan la salud, incluida la movilidad económica, las relaciones de apoyo, la seguridad alimentaria, el acceso a banda ancha y los vecindarios seguros. En última instancia, cumplimos nuestra misión de “Servir a la humanidad para honrar a Dios” promoviendo la equidad en salud para que las personas y familias más resilientes que viven en los 74 condados a los que servimos puedan prosperar.

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Methodist Healthcare Ministries Opens Request for Proposals (RFP) for 74-County Environmental Scan & Analysis 

Teno Villarreal on October 29, 2024

(San Antonio, TX October 29, 2024) – In 2024, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.(MHM) is seeking proposals from qualified partners to conduct an environmental scan and assist with a SWOT analysis to be utilized as key strategic planning inputs for its 74-county service area. Interested entities have until November 12 to submit a proposal. 

The primary objective of the environmental scan is to systematically gather, analyze, and assess external environments to identify barriers and facilitators to health and well-being across MHM’s service area. By identifying both barriers and facilitators, the scan aims to inform the strategic plan as a priority, along with having some influence on policy and practice to better address well-being challenges within the community and priority areas. 

The preferred approach will include identifying and analyzing external macro environmental factors impacting health outcomes utilizing the STEEPLE framework. As such, the successful environmental scan will include factors influencing public health outcomes including examining broader social, technological, economic, environmental, political, legal, and ethical trends and developments.  

“This exciting project will go a long way to helping inform and direct where MHM directs its resources and attention in the coming years as we strive to fulfill our mission of ‘Serving Humanity to Honor God,’” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. 

The resulting scan and analysis will be utilized, along with a SWOT analysis, for identifying new opportunities and prioritizing strategies that are in alignment with MHM’s focus on health equity. The partner selected will provide curated data, analysis, thought leadership, and recommendations to support the development and successful implementation of tools for strategic planning activities including goal setting, visioning, and prioritizing strategic initiatives.  

To view the RFP, visit MHM.org or click here.  Interested applicants with questions should contact Sandra Martinez, Vice President of Strategy and Partnerships at smartinez@mhm.org.

MHM believes that to improve the wellness of the least served and fully live out its mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God,” it must recognize the inequities inherent in its communities that contribute to poor health outcomes. Health Equity is both the process and goal by which MHM seeks to carry out that purpose. Health Equity is a framework of thought and action that strives to reduce racial and socio-economic disparities and create fair and just opportunities for every person to reach their full potential for health and life and contribute to that of others.

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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. 

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Jaime Wesoloski

President & Chief Executive Officer

Jaime Wesolowski is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Methodist Healthcare Ministries. A healthcare executive with three decades of leadership experience, Jaime is responsible for the overall governance and direction of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. Jaime earned his Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Xavier University, and his Bachelor’s of Science from Indiana University in Healthcare Administration. As a cancer survivor, Jaime is a staunch supporter of the American Cancer Society. He serves as Chair of the American Cancer Society’s South Texas Area board of directors and he was appointed as Chair to the recently created South Region Advisory Cabinet, covering eight states from Arizona through Alabama. Jaime believes his personal experience as a cancer survivor has given him more defined insight and compassion to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.