In the heart of South Philadelphia, amidst the vibrant Latino community, Puentes de Salud stands as a beacon of hope and healthcare for those who often find themselves on the margins of access.
Established in 2008 by Dr. Steve Larson and his colleagues Drs. Jack Ludmir and Matthew O’Brien, Puentes de Salud was born out of a growing recognition of the urgent need for medical services tailored to the Spanish-speaking, uninsured population flooding into the area.
Fast forward to 2022, and Puentes de Salud continues to thrive under the visionary leadership of Orfelina Feliz Payne, who assumed the role of Executive Director two years ago. With a robust academic background including a bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology from Pennsylvania State University, a master’s degree in Business from Gwynedd Mercy University, and certifications in Business Process Management and Six Sigma, Payne brings a unique blend of compassion and strategic acumen to her role.
Before joining Puentes, Payne spent nearly two decades at Community Behavioral Health (CBH), where she made significant strides in enhancing behavioral health services across Philadelphia. Her tenure culminated in her appointment as the first Latina Director within the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health & Intellectual Disabilities, a testament to her commitment to improving health outcomes for underserved communities.
At Puentes de Salud, Payne has steered the organization towards integrated care models that not only address immediate medical needs but also foster long-term community resilience. The organization offers a comprehensive array of services including medical care, dental services, behavioral health support, food access programs, case management, and educational initiatives—all delivered through a culturally and linguistically competent lens.
Reflecting on her tenure, Payne describes her experience as a rewarding journey marked by the dedication and passion of the Puentes team. “It has been an amazing roller coaster,” she shares, emphasizing the profound impact of collaborating with a community-driven staff and serving a resilient community.
Mission to Serve Spanish Speakers
Central to Puentes’ mission is its commitment to partnership and community engagement. Payne highlights the pivotal role of collaborations with organizations like Old Pine Community Center and Philabundance, which have bolstered initiatives such as the free grocery delivery program—a lifeline for many during the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Operating on a grant and donor-funded basis, Puentes de Salud remains deeply rooted in its mission to serve Spanish-speaking, uninsurable individuals in Philadelphia. Payne underscores the critical need for continued support through donations, sponsorships, and volunteerism to sustain and expand their impact.
Looking forward, Payne envisions Puentes de Salud deepening its partnerships, enhancing educational programming, and exploring opportunities for workforce development within the Latino community. Her goal is to not only meet immediate healthcare needs but also empower individuals towards self-sufficiency and thriving.
Compassionate Careand Community Development
When asked about her daily inspiration, Payne is unequivocal: “The people. The resilience of the people we serve and the dedication of our team inspire me every single day.” It is this unwavering commitment to community and service that drives her leadership at Puentes de Salud.
As she looks ahead to the future, Payne invites individuals interested in supporting Puentes de Salud’s mission to explore volunteer opportunities, visit their website, or simply walk in to learn more about how they can contribute to this vital community resource.
Under Orfelina Feliz Payne’s steadfast leadership, Puentes de Salud continues to bridge healthcare gaps and uplift the South Philadelphia Latino community, embodying a model of compassionate care and sustainable community development.
For more information on Puentes de Salud and how you can get involved, visit their website at www.puentesdesalud.org.
By: Martin Alfaro
Noticias Newswire
