TAMPA, Fla. — Research from the National Library of Medicine shows diversity in health care is key to patient care. It provides representation for different patient backgrounds and in turn, a deeper understanding of patient needs.

The Puangco family of St. Augustine said the diverse staffing at their adult son’s group home has finally given them peace of mind.

Collin Puangco, 33, is Filipino and grew up enjoying the many wonderful aspects of the culture, including a strong sense of family and traditional holidays and cuisine. 

He was diagnosed with autism at just 18 months old. He is also non-verbal.

His parents, Marco and Heather, made the tough decision to put their son into a group home.

“It’s really hard. Extremely hard. You don’t want to let go of your kid. Because only we know how to take care of him. That’s how we feel, at least. You know we’ve been doing it all his life,” Marco said.

But now, after two other facilities didn’t work out, Collin is finally comfortable at Ava Cares in Brandon. Most of the staff at his group home are also Filipino and his parents say they’ve noticed their son has settled in more easily than ever before. 

Marco and Heather said the cultural understanding has made all the difference.

“I mean, I feel like I’m around family when I’m here,” Marco said. “I definitely know he feels that as well, so that gives me great comfort.”

Making this facility a home away from home.

Ava Cares Group Home operates four facilities that serve as residential group homes for people of all backgrounds with disabilities.