Mission of Mercy (MOM) serves low-income patients with compassionate care that honors their dignity. In six locations throughout Maricopa County, MOM provides medical care and prescription medication completely free of charge. Over 50% of MOM patients have diabetes, more than four times higher than Arizona’s average.

MOM knew they had to do something to support their patients beyond the quality healthcare and prescription medications they already provided. Funding from Mobilize AZ allowed them to pilot a comprehensive diabetes management program at one clinic delivered by a bilingual, bicultural Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. The program also offered fresh produce, healthy recipes, and nutrition counseling to support participants in improving their eating habits.

By giving patients the tools they needed to understand their condition and make meaningful lifestyle changes, MOM empowered them to take charge of their health and improve their long-term outcomes. During the grant year, 129 patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes had a total of 1,108 visits, received 3,623 prescription medications, attended 510 diabetes education and nutrition sessions, and received 325 bags of fresh produce. Program goals were reached as patients decreased HBA1c blood sugar levels by .5 and systolic blood pressure by 10mm. These health improvements reduced participants’ risk of major cardiovascular events such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure.

Building on this successful pilot project, MOM has been able to attract additional funding and plans to expand to all six clinic sites where it will continue to combat the devastating effects of diabetes for patients and their families.

Visit the Mission of Mercy website 