Bring Hope and Health to Families in Need This Holiday Season

As the year comes to a close, we reflect on the profound impact that accessible health care has had on individuals and families in our community throughout 2024. At Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center (Sam Rodgers), we witness daily how compassionate, affordable care transforms lives, especially for those who might otherwise go without.

“Our community’s strength lies in its health, and at Sam Rodgers, we are committed to ensuring no one is left behind,” said Bob Theis, chief executive officer. “Every donation helps us fulfill Dr. Rodgers’ vision of providing health care for all, regardless of their ability to pay.”

This sentiment reflects the vision of our founder, Dr. Samuel U. Rodgers, who believed deeply in providing quality health care to underserved populations. As the first Black American board-certified OB/GYN in Kansas City, Dr. Rodgers saw the disparities in health care access and set out to create a place where all individuals, regardless of their financial means or background, could receive the care they deserve. His vision continues to guide us today, as we work to break down barriers and ensure that everyone in our community has the opportunity to live a healthy life.

Health care access remains a critical issue in Kansas City, where thousands of individuals are uninsured or underserved. Many face challenges in receiving the preventive care they need, often only seeking help when their conditions have worsened. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of affordable insurance options, leaving many families without the security of proper care. At Sam Rodgers, we strive to bridge these gaps. Our mission of providing high-quality, compassionate, and affordable health care for all directly addresses these challenges, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Throughout 2024, we’ve expanded our reach through community initiatives that provide essential services. For example, our annual Back-to-School fair offered free physicals and immunizations for children, preparing them for a healthy school year. During the holiday season, our Friendsgiving event brought together families in need, providing over 500 meals to ensure no one went without. These events are more than just acts of charity—they represent our commitment to making health care accessible for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

Our work also extends through key investments in our facilities. This year, we broke ground on a new 40-room, 30,000-square-foot pediatric wing that will nearly double our capacity for serving children. The new space will integrate WIC services, behavioral health care, and dental screenings, preparing us to serve thousands more children and families who need access to life-changing services. These efforts reflect our belief that investing in the health of children builds a healthier future for everyone.

The Propeller Building, which opened in August 2024, stands as a testament to our ongoing commitment to the community. This 4,000-square-foot space serves as a hub for health education, community events, and relationship-building, allowing us to reach even more individuals and families with critical support. It’s a place where the community can come together to learn, grow, and thrive, helping to create a culture of health that extends beyond the walls of our health center.

At the heart of all these efforts is a dedication to people. Whether it’s providing free physicals for children at our Back-to-School fair or connecting families to resources during Friendsgiving, our work is about creating a sense of dignity and belonging. As Erica Peavy, director of clinical operations, explains, “Our goal is to meet each patient where they are—physically, culturally, and emotionally—and to make them feel seen and valued, no matter their circumstances.” This approach reflects the deep commitment shared by every member of the Sam Rodgers team, ensuring that each person who walks through our doors receives the care they need and the respect they deserve.

None of this would be possible without the support of generous donors who believe in our mission. Your year-end gift helps fund the vital programs and services that allow us to continue meeting the needs of our community. Every donation ensures that more children can receive vaccinations, more families can access preventive services, and more neighbors can find the support they deserve.

As we close out 2024, we ask you to join us in making a difference. Your donation directly impacts the lives of those who need it most. Whether it’s helping to fund our community outreach events, expanding our services, or providing essential care to underserved families, your support allows us to continue building a healthier, stronger community. Together, we can ensure that everyone in Kansas City has access to the care they need to live a long, healthy life.

Please consider making a year-end gift today at our donation page. With your help, we can continue to honor Dr. Rodgers’ legacy and create lasting change in the lives of our neighbors.