News Release
Posted by The MolinaCares Accord

The MolinaCares Accord and Preservation of the Burning of Zozobra Team Up to Provide Health and Wellness  Resources at 100th Burning of Zozobra


Media Contact: Caroline Zubieta, Caroline.Zubieta@MolinaHealthcare.com, 562-951-1588

Santa Fe, NM – August 26, 2024 – The MolinaCares Accord (“MolinaCares”), in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of New Mexico (“Molina”), is teaming up with the Preservation of the Burning of Zozobra to enhance the experience at this year’s 100th Burning of Zozobra. As the iconic event lifts spirits, MolinaCares is stepping in to support participants’ physical and mental well-being with a $15,000 grant sponsorship to provide information about affordable health care coverage and health care services to attendees.

The Burning of Zozobra is staged annually by the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe to mark the end of summer and is attended by about 65,000 individuals. A statewide survey examining the social determinants of health in New Mexico found 41% of participants reported difficulty in accessing medical care and 50% of participants had trouble accessing mental health care. 

“We know the past several years have been a trying time for many New Mexicans,” said Carolyn Ingram, plan president for Molina Healthcare of New Mexico. “As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of this iconic event, Molina is thrilled to partner with Preservation of the Burning of Zozobra to connect attendees to resources that will help them improve their health and lives.”

In addition to the $15,000 grant sponsorship, MolinaCares has donated a booth at the event to La Familia Health, a federally qualified health center serving Santa Fe County. The organization will raise awareness of a range of medical, dental, behavioral health, and support services available to community members.

“We are truly excited about this collaboration and the positive impact it will have on our community,” said Raymond Sandoval, executive director of the Preservation of the Burning of Zozobra. “At this year’s event, participants can release the stress of the past year and look forward to a healthier future with Molina’s support.”

Net proceeds from the event will be distributed to organizations focusing on education, health, basic needs, arts, and recreation for local children. Benefitting organizations have used the funds for various programs, including promoting mental and physical health education for Santa Fe-area youth.

About The MolinaCares Accord: 

Established by Molina Healthcare, Inc., The MolinaCares Accord oversees a community investment platform created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities. The MolinaCares Accord funds such measures through the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc.  

About Molina Healthcare of New Mexico: 

Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, Inc. provides government-funded, quality health care to members through Medicaid and health insurance marketplace programs throughout New Mexico. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.

About Preservation of the Burning of Zozobra: 

The Preservation of the Burning of Zozobra is a 501(c)3 formed to support the continuity of this historic Santa Fe, New Mexico cultural tradition, preserving this cherished event for generations to come. 

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