'We feel safer at church': Latino Families in Weld County Are Turning to Faith Communities for Healthcare

Drummers accompany a group doing a traditional dance at Our Lady of Peace Parish in Greeley. (Photo: John Daley/CPR News)

In the parking lot at Our Lady of Peace Parish in Greeley, hundreds of Latino families recently gathered for something many find increasingly difficult to access: basic healthcare. As Colorado Public Radio reports, fear of immigration enforcement, rising costs and lack of insurance are pushing many Latino residents to delay or avoid medical care altogether.

That’s why the Bazar de la Salud (Health Bazaar), hosted at Our Lady of Peace, made such a difference. Free vaccines, screenings and medical consultations were offered in a place people trust — with a clear message that no one would be asked about immigration status.

“We feel safer at church,” one attendee told CPR.

Health advocates say these fears don’t just affect physical health, but also mental and emotional well-being, shaping how families live day-to-day. Community-led events like this one aim to bridge the gap, offering care, dignity and reassurance when it’s most needed.

Read the full story from CPR News: https://www.cpr.org/2025/12/17/latino-health-care-access-fears-weld-county/