Clinics partner to solve food insecurities in community

Association News, Clinic Highlights,

New Partnership Brings Fresh Food to Opa-locka Community

We’re excited to share an inspiring new partnership that’s making a real difference in the lives of Opa-locka residents.

The UHI Community Care Clinic has teamed up with Caring for Miami to launch a monthly Mobile Food Market right at the clinic. This mobile market will provide free fresh food items to local families, helping to address one of the most pressing challenges in the area—access to healthy food.

Opa-locka and its surrounding neighborhoods are considered food deserts, meaning residents have extremely limited access to grocery stores that carry fresh fruits and vegetables. For many families, the lack of affordable, nutritious food contributes to long-term health issues and deepens the cycle of poverty and chronic disease. This new initiative is a powerful step toward changing that.

Starting this month, the Caring for Miami mobile food market will be visiting the UHI Clinic once a month, offering community members the opportunity to take home fresh produce and essential pantry items—completely free of charge. This is more than just food; it’s nourishment, dignity, and hope for many who have gone too long without it. Together, these organizations are creating a healthier, more equitable future—one step, and one meal, at a time.

"We are incredibly grateful for the support from our community partners, volunteers, and donors who help make this work possible. Your commitment empowers us to care for our most vulnerable and underserved neighbors in South Florida." -- Shabbir Motorwala, UHI

"We are so grateful for our partnership with UHI Clinic and for the opportunity to serve the Opa-locka community. Your support in spreading awareness and being such a dedicated site partner makes a world of difference. Because of partners like you, more families can access the care they need in a place they already know and trust. We’re excited to continue growing this partnership and expanding access to even more neighborhoods." -- Ashley Giritli, Caring for Miami

At the Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (FAFCC), we are proud to see our member organizations leading the way in meeting community needs beyond medical care. UHI Community Care Clinic and Caring for Miami exemplify the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and compassion that defines our network. Their partnership is a powerful reminder that addressing social determinants of health—like food insecurity—is essential to achieving health equity in Florida.

We’re honored to support this work and celebrate the impact our members continue to make across the state.

Watch the full announcement and see the mobile market in action on YouTube.