In a modest little building, on a modest little street, women arrive in a steady stream to play Loteria (Bingo) on a Tuesday night. The humid, sticky heat outside is replaced by glorious air conditioning, and it’s not long before a meal is served as well. But instead of the traditional spaces on a bingo card, there is something very different: breasts. Yes, there are cartoon sketches of breasts, doctors, and the American Cancer Society logo on this card. Suddenly, you notice women are getting up periodically throughout the game, and are heading back to a secluded room, only to return a few minutes later. There’s something else going on here, something much bigger, and far more powerful, than a simple Loteria game.
The infamous Bingo cards, as well as educational materials for every woman who attends. Photo: hauteintexas.com
Such is the scene every third Tuesday of the month at the Martinez Street Women’s Center, and I was privileged to attend this month’s game just last night. I arrived a bit early and met with the amazingly energetic Becca Najera, who helps keep everything running smoothly for this wonderful organization. Their breast cancer awareness program helps women not only learn more about the disease, they are given a “cancer-fighting” meal (think antioxidants and whole grain bread), as well as free screenings by a doctor, regardless of whether or not they have insurance. If there are symptoms, or a diagnostic screening is required, the women are handed a prescription right then and there, and the Center follows up with them for at least the next 3 months to make sure they receive a mammogram. Regardless of the income situation, Becca and her volunteers find the appropriate health center for each woman, and they help resolve any logistical issues, such as transportation.
The ladies enjoying a meal and preparing for Bingo. Photo: hauteintexas.com
In addition to “Breast Cancer Bingo”, the Martinez St. Women’s Center runs a youth empowerment program aimed at helping girls ages 9-14 learn valuable skills and develop their sense of self-worth. I was most impressed with their eco-friendly (several articles on ONE expertly-folded piece of paper!) newspaper, which is entirely written by the girls. I distinctly remember writing for the school newsletter in the 6th grade, and I sincerely hope these girls find it just as exciting and thrilling as I did. Putting one’s thoughts and feelings into writing is a powerful thing, and the Center hopes each of these girls will take their skills on to further their education. Beyond the newsletter, participants are also exposed to arts and crafts, as well as technology-inspired projects.
The bottom line is, here at Haute in Texas it’s easy to get caught up in the latest bag, or the most beautiful shoe, but that’s not really all that important in the long run. Women helping other women live healthy, happy lives is what we’re all about, and the Martinez Street Women’s Center exemplifies that better than anyone. If you’re inspired by what you’ve read today, check out their website here, and feel free to get in touch with Becca about how you can help. She is literally one of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, and her passion for the cause is utterly contagious. Just look at how much fun we were having!
The lovely Becca (right) and I. Photo: hauteintexas.com
XO,
A
