Health and Wellness Program
YWCA South Florida Health and Wellness Programs provide health education and prevention services.
The Health and Wellness Program at the YWCA has provided health education and prevention services for over 20 years. We provide life-saving breast and cervical cancer screenings, as well as education and services for obesity prevention/reduction, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stress management/reduction.
YWCA offers a comprehensive system of client outreach, prevention, intervention, referrals, and follow-up. This helps our clients’ to access health care services and education and improve their health status. We work with community partners to provide services to Miami’s diverse population in their native language. As result, YWCA ensures that the uninsured, underserved, linguistically isolated, and vulnerable individuals of South Florida are receiving access to care
HER Health
Lifesaving Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings
To schedule your screening today or for more information contact Alina Ballesteros at aballesteros@ywcasouthflorida.org or Beanna Lormilsaint at blormilsaint@ywcasouthflorida.org.
You can also call us at 305-377-9922 ext. 250.
We work to be a community advocate and leader in the fight against breast and cervical cancer. We provide the following FREE screenings for women ages 18+ who meet eligibility requirements.
Mammograms
Diagnostic Exams
Ultrasounds
Cervical Cancer Screenings (Pap Smears)
Clinical Breast Exams
Circles of Support
The Circles of Support Cancer Support Group is a nurturing community designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for women of color facing breast cancer. This group fosters open conversations, allowing members to share their experiences and feel truly seen, heard, and supported. By building a strong network of solidarity, the group empowers women through shared stories, educational workshops, mental health support, and guidance on navigating the healthcare system. It addresses the unique cultural, social, and emotional challenges faced by women of color, ensuring equitable access to care and resources. Ultimately, it is a family where every woman feels valued, uplifted, and empowered to face breast cancer with courage and hope.
Keep an eye out for our Circles of Support schedule.
Health Education Workshops
Our Health Education Workshops address everyday health concerns and the social determinants of health. Led by expert speakers, these sessions cover topics like chronic diseases, mental health, nutrition, and preventive care. Participants learn how socioeconomic status, education, environment, and social support impact health outcomes. Through interactive discussions and practical advice, these workshops empower individuals to make informed health decisions and advocate for healthier communities. Join us to learn, connect, and take steps toward a healthier, more equitable future. For more information, please email Deidra Muirhead at Healthedumgr@ywcasouthflorida.org.
5 Tips for Lifelong Breast Health
In these unsure times, many women, especially African-American and brown women, have unintentionally neglected their annual mammograms. Breast cancer often occurs in women with no obvious symptoms, but you can help yourself by embracing the following habits all year long for optimum breast health: observe, self-examine, and screen.
1. Regular Examinations: Perform monthly self-exams and get regular mammograms as recommended by your doctor.
o Perform monthly breast self-examinations to become familiar with your breasts and detect any changes early.
o Schedule regular mammograms and clinical breast exams as recommended by your healthcare provider, typically starting
at age 40 or earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer.
2. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Maintain a healthy weight and limit alcohol.
3. Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly to regulate hormone levels and maintain weight.
4. Avoid Toxins: Limit exposure to radiation, environmental pollutants, and avoid smoking.
5. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
For more information and resources on breast cancer please visit American Cancer Society.
The Health and Wellness Program is funded by United Way Miami as part of their mission to improve quality of life for all by bringing together people and resources committed to building a better community.
