Local Free Clinic Receives $50,000 Grant to Support Free Health Care for Uninsured

Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic (right) last week announced that it has been selected as one of The Leon Levine Foundation (TLLF) Grant recipients for 2021, receiving a grant award of $50,000.

The philanthropic foundation, based in Charlotte, NC, considers healthcare proposals from nonprofits with the mission to improve access to quality medical care and support services. Established in 1980, The Leon Levine Foundation supports programs and organizations that improve the human condition through investments in education, healthcare, human services, and Jewish values. The Foundation invests in nonprofits across North Carolina and South Carolina with strong leadership, a track record of success, and a plan for financial sustainability

The gift from The Leon Levine Foundation will enhance Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic’s commitment to the underserved population across the Lowcountry who are uninsured and in need of health care, particularly as we all come together in confronting the COVID-19 crisis. Currently, the Clinic serves over 450 patients a month who are uninsured and either live or work on Johns, James & Wadmalaw Islands or Folly Beach, including those who serve the hospitality industry on the Charleston peninsula. The Clinic hopes to expand their free services to thousands more in need of medical attention across the Lowcountry, and continue to provide vaccination clinics to combat the spread of COVID-19 within vulnerable communities.

“We are so grateful for The Leon Levine Foundation’s support,” said Clinic Director Brenda Falls. “This gift will help to secure the critical medical supplies and care that our patients depend on for years to come, as well as help us to promote our free services to an even greater population without access to health care.”

In addition to the volunteer hours of over 138 medical professionals and staff, the Clinic depends solely on funding via grants and donations from the community to support operations at the 7-exam room facility off of Maybank Highway on Johns Island, SC. The Clinic does not receive any state or federal funding and serves roughly 22% of the uninsured that live or work across the Barrier Islands community. Additional sources of revenue come from the Clinic’s annual fundraisers, including a Golf Invitational, Sporting Clays Tournament, and ‘Fashion for a Cause’ event. For details on how you can support or attend an upcoming event, visit www.bifmc.org.

If you would like to make a donation to the clinic to support free health care services for those who cannot afford health insurance, please visit www.bifmc.org.

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