Since an exploratory trip in 1999 following the devastation of Hurricane Mitch, OCHO has committed to providing health services to the rural and remote village of Atima, in the Department of Santa Barbara. Each year, a brigade team of volunteers provides free medical services to the community. As our relationships with the community developed, we expanded our focus from providing basic primary care to developing an expanding portfolio of sustainable programs of education, public health infrastructure, and clinical training.
Medical Outreach
Public Health
In partnership with the Rotary Club of Baltimore, Rotary International, Agua Clara (Cornell University), Agua Para El Pueblo, and the Municipal Government of Atima, OCHO helped to raise funds to support the construction of a $100,000 water purification facility to serve the Atima community.
Community Development
Current Initiatives
Special Needs School
The new school will serve over 200 children in the community who currently do not have access to interventions. The goal is to treat children and educate their families to enhance their potential for an active integration in their community and improved quality of life. The model of a rehabilitation and educational center like the one OCHO and CRIC-Atima envision is especially impactful in rural communities and among low-income families.