- 17 -
accessHealthNews.net
January 2025
Volume 11 | Issue No. 92
Across Kansas City, schools have become
more than places of learning—they
are critical touchpoints for addressing
children's mental health needs. Yet, many
children struggle to access the behavioral
health care they need due to systemic
barriers. Thanks to the generous support of
AcruxKC, Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center
(Sam Rodgers) is changing that narrative
with its new behavioral health van, a
mobile unit designed to deliver expert
care directly to schools.
"AcruxKC launched its behavioral health
grants program in 2023. We are thrilled
to support Sam Rodgers' new mobile
behavioral health unit, which will bring
essential behavioral health services
directly to some of our community's most
vulnerable students at their schools.
Whether addressing an individual student's
needs or responding to a school-wide
crisis, the mobile unit represents the kind
of innovative collaboration required to
ensure uninsured and underinsured youth
have access to the behavioral health care
they urgently need," said Beth Radtke,
AcruxKC executive director.
The van, built on the Ford Transit platform
and customized by Vandoit Adventures
of Blue Springs, Missouri, is a thoughtfully
designed mobile unit that prioritizes safety,
comfort, and sustainability. Every element
has been tailored to create a secure and
calming environment for children. Dual
entry and exit points allow for quick and
secure access, offering peace of mind to
both providers and patients. Inside, bolted-
down chairs and strategically placed
desks maintain safety while ensuring the
space remains welcoming.
"This setup ensures that everyone feels
secure while allowing care to happen in a
productive and supportive way," said Kelly
Flowers, chief operating officer of Vandoit
Adventure Vans.
READ MORE
"The behavioral health van is loaded with all the technology
that we have at the center in any behavioral health exam or
therapy room."
- Manuel Solano, M.D.,
Director of Behavioral Health at Sam Rodgers
