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December 21, 2018

Prenatal Outings Focused on Fun!

When you hear Angeles Hafiz, health educator at Mission Neighborhood Health Center (MNHC), speak about her clients, you can’t help but get excited.  Her dedication and enthusiasm is palpable.

Each year Angeles plans field trips “paseos” for pregnant clients who often have several other young children.  It’s a program that was designed to give the Mom’s a break, allow them to bond with others in similar situations and expose them to some of San Francisco’s cultural treats that they might not otherwise know about or find time to visit.  It’s another example of how the staff at MNHC like to focus on the whole person – not just their medical needs.

Supported by a grant from Mission Promise Neighborhood, the pregnant clients are treated to outings two to three times a year – in the fall and spring.  A shuttle bus and lunch are provided to make it easy for all. Past trips have included visits to San Francisco’s Crissy Field, the Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park and Alcatraz Island, a favorite in which their family can accompany them.  In addition, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area provides a National Park Ranger, Fatima Colindres, who graciously helps to arrange tours so patients can learn about the history of the landmarks they are visiting.

“The clients really love the chance to bond together,” said Angeles. “It is very rewarding to see their expressions when exposed to new environments as we help them take a break from their regular life. It is fun for me, too, to see them enjoy themselves.”

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