At two weeks old, Valentina was one of the first patients to visit the new Children’s Care-A-Van. Her visit was more than a routine checkup. It marked the return of a vital program that brings care to children across Caldwell County, all made possible by donor generosity.
After replacing the vehicle and finding an excellent provider, the Care-A-Van is back on the road. Pediatric nurse practitioner Haley Dorsett now leads care on this “Mission in Motion,” meeting families where they are.
The Care-A-Van has been a cornerstone of children’s healthcare in Caldwell County for more than 20 years. It started in 2003 to help families facing challenges getting to a doctor or finding one who could see their child.
A Lifeline for Families: Since its inception, the van has provided care during tens of thousands of visits.
Access for All: Today, it remains the main pediatric provider in the county that accepts both Medicaid and CHIP, and critically, it provides for children without any insurance.
When the van was temporarily off the road, the care team continued serving families at the Lockhart clinic, ensuring children still received the care they needed. But the return to a mobile model restores two essential elements for families: convenience and proximity, which removes barriers for those who may otherwise be unable to travel for care.
Inside the Care-A-Van is a full pediatric clinic. The team serves children from birth through age 18, providing a full range of services including checkups, vaccines, physicals, and care for ongoing health needs. No child is ever turned away. Uninsured families never pay more than $20 per visit, with most medicines and lab tests included.
Each year, the program serves more than 1,700 children, most of which are uninsured or underinsured. For many families, the Care-A-Van is their main source of care.
Powered by Donors: The entire program is powered by donors. Community support has kept the Care-A-Van running for more than two decades and fully funded the new van that’s now back on the road. Donor support helps cover the cost of the vehicle and the services provided to families.
As the Care-A-Van returns to making regular stops in Lockhart, Luling, Dale, and Prairie Lea, Valentina’s visit is just the beginning of another chapter. Each week, the van will continue bringing care closer to home, giving children a better chance to grow, stay healthy, and thrive.
To Schedule an Appointment: Families can schedule a visit by calling 512-738-0625.
Support the Care-A-Van: Help us ensure the Care-A-Van continues to provide critical care for the 1,700+ children who rely on it each year by choosing Care-A-Van in the dropdown menu on our donation page.