A Legacy of Healing: 16 Years of Casa

Humble Beginnings

Founded in 2008, Casa El Buen Samaritano embarked on a noble mission to provide free healthcare to the vulnerable, uninsured, and uninsurable, driven by the conviction that affordable healthcare profoundly impacts every individual’s overall quality of life. The journey began with the unwavering commitment of Co-Founder Dr. Barry Landrum, former Senior Pastor of West University Church, who sought to fulfill the mission of "going out and making disciples of all nations." Dr. Landrum envisioned forging pathways to extend the church's outreach to inaccessible communities. 

The pivotal connection occurred when Dr. Landrum joined forces with Dr. Stephen Spann, a church member and the son of a pastor, who had spent a decade as a foreign missionary in Uruguay. Dr. Spann perceived medicine as a means to minister to people, offering healing through the compassionate love of Jesus. The trio expanded with the addition of Royce Hassell, whose expertise was instrumental in constructing Casa's physical infrastructure. In 2008, Casa's clinic operations commenced in a modest trailer, repurposed from its previous use by a generous donor. Later, a second trailer, acquired at no cost, extended Casa's capacity at the end of the original trailer's lifecycle. 

Expanding Services and Overcoming Challenges 

Initially, the clinic served the community one night a month, focusing on the three zip codes nearest to the clinic. As the number of dedicated volunteers grew, so did the nights of service and the number of patients. Eventually, Casa operated every Tuesday and Thursday evening and on Wednesdays during the daytime. By 2020, Casa hired a full-time Nurse Practitioner, marking a significant milestone in its growth. Patients began traveling from over 110 zip codes, often bypassing other clinics to seek help at Casa. This growth brought challenges, highlighting the limitations of operating out of a trailer. There was a pressing need for more space and better facilities, especially to fulfill the dream of offering dental services. The trailer couldn't handle the weight of dental equipment, and there simply wasn't enough space. 

A New Chapter 

God opened many doors, and in August 2021, Casa opened a new medical clinic. This milestone allowed the introduction of dental services for the first time. The new location at CityRise Missouri City was a testament to the dedication and perseverance of everyone involved in the mission. 

Community Health Workers and Innovations in Care 

Dr. Vaughan’s contribution to Casa’s mission exemplifies aligning one’s will and actions with a perfect purpose. Before collaborating with Casa, Dr. Vaughan spent several years at Baylor College of Medicine researching the role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in improving diabetes outcomes. 

A CHW is a layperson trusted within the community who provides basic support and outreach to patients managing diabetes. CHWs follow up weekly with patients, often offering crucial support through challenging times. A CHW meets monthly with a Casa patient and a doctor for an in-depth medical appointment. Some CHWs are also ministry volunteers, going above and beyond typical duties by arranging childcare or meals. In 2022, 11 CHWs and four doctors worked with 32 patients through Dr. Vaughan’s program.  

As of 2025, CHWs will be in-house at Casa, further enhancing the ability to provide comprehensive care and support to the community. 

Afghan Clinic 

While God’s love is constant, His timing is impeccable. In late 2021, when thousands from Afghanistan fled their home country for safety and began resettling in Houston, Casa’s board and staff were inspired to act. By 2022, through determination fueled by God’s love and the tireless dedication of staff and volunteers, the clinic expanded its medical and ministry capacity to welcome Afghan patients, many referred through Refuge Church. 

The Afghan Clinic provides care to those securing regular health benefits in their new home of Houston. Emily's leadership has been instrumental in this success. She shares that, alongside medical services, the clinic offers God’s love through ministry. 

Looking Forward 

Reflecting on 16 years of service, Casa El Buen Samaritano has grown from a small trailer-based clinic to a multifaceted healthcare provider, touching countless lives across Houston. The journey has been marked by God’s unwavering love, community support, and a commitment to compassionate care. As it looks to the future, Casa remains dedicated to expanding services, embracing innovation, and continuing its mission of providing hope and healing to all who walk through its doors. 

Join the mission of Casa El Buen Samaritano! Your support can make a profound difference in the lives of those in need. Consider donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about the work being done. Together, Casa can continue to bring hope and healing to the uninsured and uninsurable in Houston. Visit here to learn how to get involved.