Molina Healthcare and Northwest Community Center Host Annual Breakfast with Santa for Families in Need
ROCKFORD, Ill. – In a festive display of community spirit, Molina Healthcare of Illinois and the Northwest Community Center came together to host their second annual Breakfast with Santa on December 14, 2024. The free event, aimed at supporting families in need, took place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northwest Community Center, located at 1325 N. Johnson Avenue.
Nichol Fricks, the Executive Director of the Northwest Community Center, emphasized the organization’s longstanding commitment to community service. “We always want to give back. Northwest Community Center has been serving our community for 76 years,” Fricks stated. “We hope to continue this legacy of support for another 76 years or longer.”
The event served approximately 300 children from the Rockford area, providing them not only with a hearty breakfast but also winter coats and toys to ensure they are prepared for the colder months. In addition to the food and gifts, attendees had the opportunity to engage in a variety of games, crafts, and other activities designed to promote fun and festive spirit.
La Jefa’s Barbershop contributed to the event by offering complimentary haircuts and braiding services, further enhancing the overall experience for families and children in attendance.
Health considerations were also a priority during the event. Molina Healthcare pointed out that residents of Winnebago County report poorer physical health compared to the national average. In response to these concerns, the organization aims to enhance access to healthcare services for individuals and families in the area, particularly during the holiday season.
Meanwhile, the City of Rockford’s Health and Human Services Division showcased its Mobile Health Unit, offering vital healthcare services to the community. Attendees were able to receive COVID vaccines, flu shots, and access educational resources regarding health plans, all facilitated in collaboration with UW Health and the Rockford Fire Department.
Molina Healthcare and the Northwest Community Center’s joint efforts reflect not only a commitment to immediate aid but also a broader objective to foster health and well-being in the community. Events like Breakfast with Santa not only spread holiday cheer but also highlight the importance of community support networks in addressing health disparities and providing essential services.
As the community looks to the future, the continued collaboration between local organizations promises to bring much-needed resources and support to the families of Rockford, fostering resilience and hope within the area.
