SAN ISIDRO – A group of citizens in San Isidro came up with a solution to their town’s problem of having no doctors or health clinics.

San Isidro is in the northern part of Starr County. It has a couple of restaurants, churches, a volunteer fire department, a lot of ranchland surrounding it and the biggest employer is the school district.

The group recently put on their annual health fair at the school’s gym.

“We can promote health, wellness and just coming out. We’re such an isolated location to be able to come out and find out what resources are available for the community,” San Isidro ISD School Board member Velinda Reyes said.

The entire community is invited from the adults to the children.

“I’m the district nurse. I’m in charge of all the kids in the school district. And I am also the organizer of this event that we do yearly and it’s getting bigger and bigger. Bringing more vendors, more people promoting to our underserved community,” Candi Requenez said.

A health clinic is ideal considering the closest hospital is 35 miles away in Rio Grande City.

“I have 26 gardens here in Starr County, both community and school gardens. That’s what AgriLIfe does. We’re all over the place and it’s all about health,” Yolanda Morado, with Texas AgriLife Extension, said.

Valley Blood Services brought their mobile unit. The Air Evac Lifeteam brought their helicopter.

“And we’re here to bring awareness that not only do we have the service, but we have a membership program that saves them money and their lives,” Air Evac Manager Diana Rodriguez said.

The Starr County hospital is testing for the essentials.

“This is wonderful for our community. We’re so happy. We’re so grateful,” Susan Lopez said.

“We are now giving pantry every morning from 9 to 10 at Casa Esperanza. And at noon we’re still feeding the hungry,” Alberto Escobedo said.

“It’s a great opportunity for the people around here to come, because sometimes it’s hard for the elderly to go to town and get their shots, your blood checked,” Miss San Isidro Alma Estrada said.

It’s the third annual health fair in San Isidro and the citizens found it to be helpful and informative. 

You can catch Con Mi Gente segments Tuesdays and Thursdays on CHANNEL 5 NEWS THIS MORNING and CHANNEL 5 NEWS at 5.