Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of reflection, celebration, and unity. For me, it is deeply personal, a reminder of the strength, resilience, and cultural pride that defines our community. It is also a call to action to honor our heritage not only with words, but through efforts that uplift the health and well-being of Hispanic families across New York and beyond.
The Hispanic community carries a powerful legacy of hard work, faith, and family. Yet, despite our many strengths, we continue to face significant health challenges. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are disproportionately prevalent among Hispanic populations. Preventable diseases often go undiagnosed due to barriers in access to care, language differences, and lack of culturally sensitive health services. In many cases, by the time individuals seek medical attention, conditions are already advanced and require more complex interventions.
These health disparities are shaped not just by biology, but by the social determinants of health, the conditions in which people live, work, and grow. Housing insecurity, limited access to nutritious foods, jobs without health benefits, and neighborhoods with fewer safe spaces for exercise all play a role in shaping health outcomes. For many Hispanic families, systemic inequities and economic hardships create obstacles that go far beyond the walls of the doctor’s office.
This is why I believe healthcare must extend beyond clinical treatment to embrace a holistic vision of wellness. At Niño de la Caridad Foundation, our mission has always been to care for the whole family, addressing both medical needs and the social barriers that impact health. Through community programs, education initiatives, and partnerships, we work to empower families with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
Our collaboration with Fidelis Care has been an important part of this effort. By working together, we expand access to preventive care, provide health education in culturally relevant ways, and connect families to essential resources. This partnership reflects the shared belief that health equity is not just a goal, but a responsibility.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I am inspired by the resilience of our community and committed to continuing the work of breaking down barriers to care. Heritage is more than history, it is the foundation on which we build a healthier, stronger future. By uniting culture, compassion, and community, we can ensure that every family has the opportunity not only to survive, but to flourish.
Dr. Denise Nuñez is a proud Dominican American, board-certified pediatrician and critical care physician. She earned her medical degree from Pedro Henríquez Ureña University in the Dominican Republic and completed her pediatric training and fellowship at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, NY. Dr. Nuñez serves as an Assistant Professor and attending physician in the Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Division at Montefiore Children’s Hospital. She is also the founder and CEO of Niño de la Caridad, a nonprofit empowering Latino youth and families through healthcare and education.