The Jesse Tree / UTMB Family Medicine Collaborative resulted from the need on the Bolivar Peninsula for medical access following Hurricane Ike. There is still a very strong community in Bolivar and the Jesse Tree resumed its Friday Food Fairs, providing fresh fruits, vegetables and social service information every other Friday. The food is provided by the Houston Food Bank and is dispensed from Port Bolivar's fire station. Resident physicians with UTMB’s Department of Family Medicine attend the food fairs, provide health screenings, and answer questions community members may have as part of their community medicine curriculum.
Dr. Cassandra Arceneaux leads the team, helping to organize this effort in association with The Jesse Tree. The project seeks to benefit the local community by providing trained resident physicians to provide access to health care, educate patients regarding chronic illnesses, and address prevention measures. UTMB’s medical students have also joined in this community service.