Humboldt Park’s new wellness center, opening in December, is a $27.5 million facility designed to enhance community health. With fitness amenities and educational programs, it aims to combat local health issues like diabetes and food insecurity. The center emphasizes accessibility for residents and fosters a supportive environment for healthier living.
Construction is wrapping up on a $27.5 million wellness center set to open in early December in Humboldt Park. This three-story facility at 2933 W. Division St. will encompass 45,500 square feet filled with health and fitness amenities, featuring a swimming pool, gym, running track, exercise classes, and a kid’s club. Ample parking will be provided at the hospital’s main lot. Diego Lopez, vice president of professional services at Humboldt Park Health, highlights the goal of this center: bridging the gap between hospital services and community wellness. The center will offer physical, occupational, and speech therapy, nutritional counseling, diabetes education, and cooking classes aimed at fostering healthier lifestyle choices. Humboldt Park struggles with high diabetes and hypertension rates, worsened by food insecurity among its residents. Nearly half of Humboldt Park households face food insecurity, indicating a desperate need for accessible wellness solutions. The wellness center aims to remedy this before medical interventions become necessary, as Lopez states, “Becoming a member of the wellness center is the first step in that journey.” Construction began in March 2023, led by local architectural firm JGMA, who previously redesigned the hospital’s interior. While set to open in December, exterior work will continue into April. CEO Jose Sanchez emphasizes that the design stands out, stating, “You look at the design, the colors; they’re different from anything else that exists in this community.” The architectural theme revolves around movement and vitality, inspired by community resilience during the pandemic. JGMA’s Dan Spore noted, “We affectionately call them ‘gills,’ but that’s where the idea came from with the perforated screens over the window.” This design aims to create a building that feels alive and inviting, contributing to a healthier community. Beyond fitness, the center focuses on education in nutrition and healthy eating habits. Given that Humboldt Park is a food desert, teaching residents how to cultivate better dietary practices is crucial. Sanchez proudly announces the $20 million state funding and additional financial contributions, reinforcing the project’s commitment to the community. Membership to the wellness center will be accessible on a sliding scale for households earning under $70,000, with subsidies available for local partners. Ald. Jessie Fuentes emphasizes the importance of creating a space tailored for the community, ensuring it aligns with residents’ needs. Sanchez views the wellness center as a pivotal milestone for enhancing health equity in Humboldt Park, merging cultural expression with wellness opportunities. He heralds it as an iconic project that speaks to growth and prosperity, enriching the community’s landscape with a message of hope and vitality.
The article discusses the upcoming opening of a new wellness center in Humboldt Park, an area in Chicago critical for addressing high rates of diabetes and food insecurity among its residents. The center is intended to provide essential health services and fitness amenities, ultimately striving to improve community health and equity. By catering to local needs, it aims to educate and empower residents toward preventative care, thus creating substantial positive impacts on the community’s overall well-being.
The Humboldt Park Wellness Center is set to play a transformative role in the local community, addressing critical health disparities through a comprehensive approach to wellness and education. With its unique design and accessible services, it aims to foster healthier lifestyles, enhance health equity, and build a supportive environment for all residents. As it prepares to open its doors, this initiative represents a hopeful step towards a healthier future for Humboldt Park.
Original Source: blockclubchicago.org
