Press release from Equality Health Foundation

Uvalde, TX — October 8, 2025 — Community Health Development, Inc. (CHDI), in
partnership with Equality Health Foundation and with support from Superior HealthPlan, is
excited to host the 4th Annual Healthy Fall Festival & Poultry Giveaway. This vibrant
community event will take place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at
the newly opened CHDI Community Health Center, located at 115 N. Ham Lane, Uvalde, TX
78801.
This free, family-friendly event is designed to support the health and well-being of Uvalde
residents by providing access to essential health services, nutritious food, and community
resources in a festive and welcoming environment.
Event Highlights Include:
• Free poultry and produce giveaway (while supplies last)
• Flu and vaccinations
• Health education and screenings
• Community well-being resources
• Family-friendly activities and entertainment
• Food and refreshments
Supporting Uvalde Families in Challenging Times
Families across Uvalde continue to face significant challenges, including the ongoing healing
process following the Robb Elementary School tragedy, rising living costs, food insecurity,
unpredictable weather, and uncertainty around healthcare coverage and access. According
to recent data, over one in three children in Uvalde County live below the poverty line,
making access to basic health services and school readiness a growing concern.
“In response to what happened in our community, this new community health center and
health festival became one of our top priorities and a vital step in our ongoing mission to
support healing and build a stronger, healthier future for Uvalde,” said Mayela Castañon,
CEO of CHDI.
“Earlier this year, we joined CHDI to open the new health center in Uvalde with the goal of
not only expanding access to healthcare services but also providing a space for the
community to gather together for impactful events like this fall festival,” said Dr. David Diaz
de Leon, supervisory medical director at Superior HealthPlan.
A Proven Impact
The Healthy Fall Festival is part of Equality Health Foundation’s broader mission to advance
health equity and well-being through culturally responsive care and community
engagement. Last year’s event served hundreds of families and provided critical health
services and food assistance.
“This festival is more than just a celebration—it’s a lifeline for families who are navigating
difficult circumstances,” said Tomás León, President and Executive Director of Equality
Health Foundation. “We’re committed to partnering with CHDI to create a healthier future
for Uvalde by connecting families with the care and support they deserve.”
Watch our 2024 Community Impact Wrap-Up Video:
https://www.equalityhealthfoundation.org/festival/healthy-fall-festival-uvalde/

   Two parties are competing for the opportunity to acquire one acre of land owned by the City Of Uvalde. Community Health Development Inc., CHDI, and a private individual wanting to start a business have different plans for the use of this land if they can convince Uvalde City Council Officials to make a decision in their respective favors.

  The November 8th Uvalde City Council agenda item was listed as the following:

  “SUBJECT: Consider the donation or selling of 1.06 acre-tract of land (city-owned) where VF Corporation is currently located. “

  According to the background information in the matter listed included in the City Council agenda packet it states the following:

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: This is the same acre-plus tract of land that Ms. Mayela Castillon with the Community Health Development Inc. approached the city council for a donation of aprox: 1 acre tract of land on July 12, 2002. 

  During that meeting it was motioned to have staff and city attorney to work on the logistics of the donation. A motion and 2nd was made. item approved. At a subsequent council meeting, Mr. Andy Gonzales came before mayor & council stating that he too, had inquired with the city on that same acre of land, but never heard back from the city and he further stated that if he were to purchase that piece of property, not only would it be added to the tax role and that it would generate more revenue to the city.

 After some discussion, we were then directed to survey and appraise to which we now have those documentations. The question that remains now is do we donate that land or place it up for sale. “

Community Health Development Inc. ( CHDI ) proposes building new day care facility 

Chief Executive Officer Mayela Castañon spoke on behalf of CHDI to the Uvalde City Council  She is requesting the City Council vote to donate the land to CHDI for the purpose of constructing a new daycare facility for its employees and also for citizens of Uvalde.According to Castañon the new day care would accommodate 60 children. 

 She argues that while CHDI would not b e able to pay for the property, it provides healthcare for many in Uvalde area. 

 According to a handout passed out at the meeting about CHDI’s economic impact, it states the economic impact in 2022-2023 will reach $21,986,777.

 She also informed the Council members the daycare will help CHDI recruit and retain qualified staff to provide quality healthcare services. 

Mr. Andy Gonzales proposes a new business for the property. 

“I’m prepared to purchase the property if you sell it,” Andy Gonzales said. 

  Andy Gonzales spoke to the council at the meeting stating he plans on expanding his business and will employ 2 to 3 people and pay property taxes to the city for years to come. According to Gonzales his business would include storage buildings and a steel business. 

  While currently residing in San Antonio, Gonzales informed the council he is a Uvalde native.

  The City Council did not make a decision about the agenda item and Mayor Don McLaughlin stated the council planned to take up the matter with the City’s attorney.