Partners for Healthy Kids is a pediatric health care program led by Little Company of Mary with support from the Crail-Johnson Foundation, Ahmanson Foundation, Weingart Foundation, Conches Club, Mary Potter & Company and other corporate and community sponsors interested in improving the health of children living in under-served communities.

The program, which began in 1994, centers around a brightly-colored, kid-friendly “clinic on wheels,” custom-built and well-equipped to provide pediatric care to children at elementary, middle and high school sites throughout the greater South Bay and Harbor communities. In addition, the van participates in immunization clinics sponsored by the community and local businesses and as well as provides medical services to local shelters.

Partners for Healthy Kids’ staff include a medical director, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, a full-time driver and many volunteer assistants. Services include the diagnosis and treatment of minor, acute medical conditions, immunizations, health education and screenings, as well as referrals to program-linked medical specialists.

The goal of Partners for Healthy Kids is to help kids stay healthy so they can be successful in their classrooms. We strive toward the realization of this goal by treating minor ailments before they become chronic and more serious, administering necessary immunizations, providing diligent case management, maintaining an excellent referral base and educating parents in basic child health care. And for those children with ongoing medical needs, Partners for Healthy Kids coordinates follow-up care with internal, county or private health care providers.

In addition, the Partners for Healthy Kids Program is also available to infants and preschool-aged children in the community without resources for seeking regular medical care. Immunization is the primary goal for these children, as a recent study has indicated that more than 60 percent of toddlers and preschoolers are inadequately immunized—even though California State Law requires all children enrolled in school to have proof of immunization. By working closely with schools, churches and local community organizations, this program enables children of all ages in the community to be linked to a vital resource network that promotes wellness and prevents more serious illness.