Programa Puente (Latino Network) is a program devoted to improving the health of the Spanish-speaking population in the Greater Grand Rapids area. What we offer:

• Health navigation services-serving individuals and families
• Health promotion-serving groups in the community through Colectivos de Salud
• Community agency partnerships-reducing possible disconnect that can occur among agencies serving the Spanish-speaking population.  

Health Navigation Services

Programa Puente offers case management for Spanish-speaking residents who are new to Kent County and may be otherwise isolated from the community. Our health navigation services plan, coordinate and facilitate activities for Spanish-speaking individuals or families. These activities introduce people to community programs and health resources, help them gain access to health care, and monitor and evaluate outcomes. We encourage our clients to make healthy lifestyle choices and to become self-reliant community members.

The program offers services to Spanish-speaking individuals and families who have been living in the United States less than five years. Whenever possible, services are provided at the client's home. Families are eligible for case management if they have health or social service needs that our community health workers can address.

Health Navigation Services include:

• Access to health care services
• Assistance with application for medical coverage
• Assistance with learning to use public transportation system
• Assistance with school enrollment for children
• Assistance locating English classes
• Providing access to available community resources
• Providing information on cardiovascular disease
• Providing information on community development groups and activities

Read how Victor is effectively managing his diabetes through support from Programa Puente.

Health Promotion

Colectivos de Salud (CdS) is an all-volunteer, community mobilization program that educates leaders in the Spanish-speaking community to become ambassadors for their community. New leaders are often people who have taken part in Programa Puente themselves, but are now ready to take on leadership roles in their community.

After being trained, leaders reach out to others on a one-on-one basis. They may give small group presentations focused on cardiovascular health and organize community events. CdS members work together to reinforce a sense of community and bring a message of healthier lifestyles in a festive way-health fairs, street parties, events in the park.

Community/Agency Partnerships

The staff at Programa Puente help build relationships and encourage information sharing with individuals and organizations interested in serving the Latino population. Our staff consists of members that arenot only bilingual, but also bicultural and with rootsin various Latin American countries. They connect with newcomers through their shared experiences. In partnering with other agencies, we:

• Increase awareness of the needs of the Spanish-speaking population
• Increase availability of social services for the Spanish-speaking population
• Increase cultural competency among providers
• Raise awareness of Latino culture
• Strengthen partnerships among Latino-serving organizations

Contact Us

Programa Puente (Latino Network)
75 Sheldon Blvd. SE, Suite 101
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: 616.391.6199
Fax: 616.391.6070