UH Rainbow Center Dedication Celebrates New Model of Compassionate Care

Ribbon-cutting for $26 million center reinforces UH commitment to improving health and wellness in our community

The community gathered on June 29 to celebrate a new model of compassionate care that offers a host of integrated services all under one roof. Hundreds of attendees took part in festivities which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and block party at the UH Rainbow Center for Women & Children in Cleveland's MidTown neighborhood.

“At UH, improving the health of the people and communities we serve is our priority," said Chief Executive Officer Tom Zenty at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “With this new center, we're integrating resources to help transform the lives of those in our community. It demonstrates our commitment to provide more access to care and to address many of the social factors that affect health…and takes an affirming step in closing the healthcare disparity gap."

 Rainbow Center for Women & Children's opening event.

Honored guests at the event included Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson; U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown; Barbara Sears, the Director of the Ohio Department of Medicaid; and Tracy Plouck, Director of the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Rainbow patients and neighborhood residents toured the new facility that will open on July 9, received health information, enjoyed lively entertainment from WZAK and WENZ radio personalities Haz Matthews and Bijou Star, and partook in other activities including face painting, raffles, games and food.

From the center's inception, UH has sought the input from a diverse array of community stakeholders including over 70 people from 35 different organizations, and garnered support from business leaders, elected officials and donors. In fact, generous support from donors and the proceeds from an innovative public-private financing vehicle known as new markets tax credits covered all capital costs.

“When we decided to build, we began by listening," said Patti DePompei, RN, MSN, President of UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital and UH MacDonald Women's Hospital. “We asked our neighbors what they wanted and needed. We interviewed patients and formed a community advisory board. We are grateful to these advisors for their input in shaping the services and partnerships that will make the center unique."