Big Bend Cares has been serving the Big Bend Region for more than four decades, evolving alongside the needs of the communities we serve while remaining steadfast in our commitment to compassionate, equitable, and patient-centered care.
Originally known as Tallahassee AIDS Support Services (TASS), Big Bend Cares was formed in 1985 by a small group of dedicated volunteers who recognized a growing need for support among individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. At a time when fear, stigma, and limited information surrounded the epidemic, volunteers answered phone calls from community members seeking guidance, visited individuals in hospitals and homes, and provided counseling and support groups to those navigating a difficult diagnosis.
As the number of individuals seeking assistance increased, volunteers formally organized and incorporated as a nonprofit organization on July 1, 1987. In 1991, the organization adopted the name Big Bend Comprehensive AIDS Resources, Education & Support, Inc. (Big Bend Cares) to better reflect its expanding geographic reach and comprehensive approach to care.
Over the years, Big Bend Cares has grown from a volunteer-driven HIV support organization into a leading provider of integrated health and supportive services across the Big Bend Region. Today, Big Bend Cares remains the only AIDS Service Organization serving all eight counties of Area 2B, providing care coordination, housing assistance, insurance support, prevention services, education, and other essential programs designed to improve health outcomes and quality of life.
In 2017, Big Bend Cares expanded its continuum of care through the opening of Care Point Health & Wellness Center. Established with the vision of creating a fully integrated healthcare home, Care Point provides accessible, high-quality medical services in one convenient location, including primary care, infectious disease treatment, dental services, laboratory services, radiology, pharmacy services, and other coordinated healthcare supports.
Together, Big Bend Cares and Care Point Health & Wellness Center deliver comprehensive, patient-centered health care and supportive services that empower individuals, families, and communities to thrive.
Our Vision
Big Bend Cares envisions a community where individuals affected by health disparities have adequate support and access to care to live long, dignified, healthy, and stable lives.
Care Point Health & Wellness Center envisions being the leader of integrated, compassionate, patient-centered care that transforms health outcomes across the Big Bend Region.