Mayor Rahm Emanuel today joined local officials at a topping out ceremony for Esperanza Health Centers’ new medical clinic in Brighton Park. The $17.2 million state-of-the-art facility will provide primary healthcare to area residents when it opens early next year.

“The new Esperanza Health Center will be a place for healing and hope for Brighton Park and the surrounding communities,” said Mayor Emanuel. “This investment marks the latest step in our effort to increase access to quality health care to our residents and strengthen the lives of every family across our city.”

Under construction at 4700 S. California Ave., the two-story, 26,100-square-foot complex will provide high-quality healthcare for low-income residents regardless of economic circumstances, with an emphasis on maternal and child health services.

City support includes $10 million in New Markets Tax Credits from the Chicago Development Fund to support construction costs.

The center will have 30 exam rooms, a pharmacy, laboratory services, and specialty care resources, as well as a community room, teaching kitchen, garden and playground.

In addition to providing access to health care for a medically underserved population, the center will partner with local schools to become a wellness resource for students and families. Mujeres Latinas en Acción, a bilingual organization that empowers Latina women and their families, will provide wellness, social services, and recreational opportunities on site.

Designed by Juan Gabriel Moreno of JGMA Architects, Esperanza Health Center is expected to serve more than 20,000 patents annually and employ 84 people full-time.

Currently, Esperanza operates three Southwest Side family health centers that serve more than 20,000 individuals a year. The organization was founded in 2004 by St. Anthony Hospital administrators to improve healthcare delivery on the Southwest Side.

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