Julissa Soto's Visit to Secours Catholique - Caritas France: A Step Forward in Global Health Initiatives

Julissa Soto's Visit to Secours Catholique - Caritas France: A Step Forward in Global Health Initiatives

During her Europe Health Tour, Julissa Soto, a Mexican-born health specialist and immigrant to the United States for the past 27 years, made a significant stop in Paris, France, from June 24 to 26, 2024. This visit was part of her participation in the "World Congress on Infectious Diseases," where she presented on the topic: "The Power of Cultural Validation: A Global Innovative Strategy When Working with Vaccines." The conference aimed to bring together global health experts to discuss innovative strategies in combating infectious diseases.

In addition to her conference participation, Julissa met with representatives from Secours Catholique - Caritas France, including Priest Óscar Romano. Secours Catholique is a prominent organization dedicated to supporting immigrants and refugees. The organization provides crucial services including health assistance, employment support, and psychological counseling. They also collaborate with the local city hall to address the diverse needs of the immigrant community, focusing on demands related to health, work, and housing.

During her visit, Julissa had the opportunity to learn about the extensive work Secours Catholique - Caritas France does to support immigrants and refugees. She was particularly impressed by their holistic approach, which integrates immediate assistance with long-term support strategies. The organization’s parish focuses on addressing the comprehensive needs of the immigrant population, providing not only practical support but also psychological care, which is essential for the well-being of individuals who have faced significant hardships.

Inspired by the impactful work of Secours Catholique, Julissa decided to incorporate this church into her Vaccine Sundays Initiative, launching "Vaccine Sundays in Paris." This initiative aims to provide culturally validated vaccination services to underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to essential vaccines in a supportive and understanding environment.

Julissa's collaboration with Secours Catholique - Caritas France and Priest Óscar Romano marks a significant step forward in her mission to enhance health equity globally. By adding "Vaccine Sundays in Paris" to her initiative, she continues to expand her efforts to make a global impact on public health, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care and support they need.