Cotton candy, check-ups & Community: MHHC’s Patient Appreciation Day brings the Bronx together

Bronx Voice

August 8, 2025

BRONX VOICE - MHHC (Morris Heights Health Center) pulled out all the stops on August 6th, transforming Burnside Avenue into a full-blown festival in celebration of National Health Center Week 2025, and the Bronx showed up in style. 

More than 400 community members walked through the closed-off streets under the summer sun as MHHC hosted its annual Patient Appreciation Day—and if you weren’t there, you missed out on a Bronx block party like no other. 

This year’s National Health Center Week theme— “Celebrating the Past, Present, and Future”—was brought to life in the most vibrant way possible. From toddlers to seniors, laughter, connection, and care filled the air.

The day featured a bouncy house that never emptied, a magician who left jaws on the pavement, and an abundance of sweet treats — cotton candy, snow cones, smoothies, and popcorn flowed freely for attendees of all ages. 

But amidst all the fun, the event delivered something deeper: a powerful show of unity and care. 

MHHC President & CEO Mari G. Millet proudly welcomed Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, who not only spoke passionately about MHHC’s long-standing commitment to the Bronx but also presented the organization with a Citation of Merit in recognition of its impact. Gibson highlighted MHHC’s role as a vital pillar in the community, praising its cultural sensitivity, patient dignity, and the deep compassion it brings to every interaction. 

Her words underscored a powerful truth: MHHC is more than just a healthcare provider, a 

trusted and indispensable partner in the lives of Bronx families.

Community-based organizations lined the street with health and wellness information, giveaways, and cultural goods, while MHHC staff offered free screenings for blood pressure, glucose, and other health indicators, ensuring that Patient Appreciation Day didn’t just look good, it felt good too. 

Mari G. Millet, whose remarks left a lasting impact on the crowd. 

“We aren’t here today just to throw a party,” Millet began. “We are here because we owe you—our patients, our neighbors—our deepest thanks. You’ve trusted us with your health, your families, and your stories. That trust means everything to us.” 

She continued: “At MHHC, we don’t just care for our patients—we care about them. We walk with you through your struggles, we celebrate your victories, and we show up—day in and day out— because we believe in you. This community is our purpose. And today, we honor that bond.” 

The cheers said it all. 

From toddlers dancing to DJ beats to elders chatting under shaded tents, the day had  something for everyone, including a few impromptu dance-offs. For many, it was more than a celebration. It was a reminder of what healthcare can look like when humanity leads the way. 

MHHC also proudly welcomed all its community partners and sponsors, who not only supported but also attended the celebration, including: 

NYC Health, iCare Family Pharmacy, Bridge Builders, Community Partnership Day Care Council of New York, Fidelis Care, NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development, Davidson Community Center Inc., The New York Public Library, MetroPlus Health, American Cancer Society, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, NYC Bronx Community Board 5, Molina Healthcare, VNS Health & SelectHealth.

As National Health Center Week continues, MHHC’s message rings loud and clear: Healthcare is a right, and community is the foundation. 

Patient Appreciation Day was the proof—one joyful bounce, one heartfelt word, and one smiling face at a time.