Uniting Parents is a parent case management program for families of children with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities.
We are staffed by a program director, administrative assistant and Parent Case Managers who have children with disabilities of their own and are highly trained in discovery ways to help you. Uniting Parents provides families in the upper 32 counties of the Texas Panhandle the resources they need to help their children.
The program is designed to empower families and enhance their children's quality of life by providing information, education, training, referrals, networking and support.
This wealth of services is grant funded by the Children with Special Health Care Needs Program of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and is part of the Coalition of Health Services, Inc.For more information about Uniting Parents you may contact Maria Garcia, Program Director at our main office or contact a sub office in your area.
Children with Special Healthcare Needs (CSHCN) Program.Amarillo Office
Main Office:
301 S. Polk, Suite 740
Amarillo, Texas 79101
806.337.1700
1.888.892.CARE (2273) Toll Free
806.337.1702 Fax
maria.garcia@cohs.net
Maria Garcia
Program Director
Amarillo Office
(806) 337- 1700 Ext.1212
maria.garcia@cohs.net
Maria Garcia was born to migrant farm workers Maria and Antonio Garcia. Throughout her high
school years, her family traveled to northern states to cultivate crops during the summer and after
school. Despite these challenges, Maria graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from
West Texas State University in 1983, the same year she married her high school sweetheart, Joe
Garcia.
Now residing in Amarillo, Maria and Joe are proud parents of three grown children: Victoria,
Linda, and Joe. They cherish their roles as grandparents to four grandchildren, Andres,
Maddilynne, Carina, and Harper.
Maria's journey in education began with seven years of teaching in elementary schools at
Hereford ISD, followed by four years as a school counselor. Her life took a profound turn with
the birth of her third child, Joe, who has Down syndrome. This experience ignited her passion in
advocating for children with disabilities. In 1994, she became the director of Uniting Parents, a
program under the Coalition of Health Services, where she has been dedicated to supporting
families of children with disabilities ever since.
In addition to her direct work with families, Maria has served on numerous local and statewide
workgroups, including those associated with the Texas Education Agency, Health and Human
Services, Early Childhood Intervention, Special Olympics, and various non-profits. Her faith and
family are of utmost importance to her, and she believes deeply in helping others—a value
instilled in her by her mother, who was a driving force in helping her recognize her gifts in
service to others.
Maria remains committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families in her
community, advocating for inclusion and support for all.
Donna Scott
Families Respite
Program Assistant
Amarillo Office
(806) 337- 1700
1-806-420-0221
Respite@cohs.net
Hello, my name is Donna Scott. I am the Respite Assistant for the
Amarillo Office. I have two grown children and eight grandchildren
whom I adore. I look forward to working with parents of special needs
children as I help them in finding needed rest and refreshment from
their daily lives.
