Last Updated on May 22, 2023
Last spring, we were astounded at the number of caring medical professionals who donated their time, their expertise, and their patience to help administer COVID vaccines at pop-up clinics throughout the community. But did you know that there are hundreds of volunteers who regularly work to offer quality care to the most vulnerable in Henderson and Polk Counties—and have done so since 2001?
Today, we shine a spotlight on a local organization that brings together volunteers, advocates, and healthcare and community partners for a common goal. We invite you to learn more about The Free Clinics and how you can help them meet their mission.
What is The Free Clinics?
The Free Clinics (TFC) enhances the healthcare system in Henderson County and neighboring communities by ensuring the accessibility of high-quality healthcare for uninsured, low-income clients. The nonprofit works with volunteers and partnering healthcare providers to provide healthcare, prevention, education, medication access, and case management services, including specialty referrals. Today, TFC is a community of 280+ volunteers, 170+ healthcare and community partners, 750+ donors, and an untold number of local advocates.
TFC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is accredited at the highest level by the North Carolina Association of Free & Charitable Clinics. The organization and its participants have won a large number of community awards over the years, including the 2008 Citizen of the Year award from the Hendersonville Civitan Club for “outstanding achievement of unselfish service in the betterment of our community.”
What services do they offer?
Since 2001, TFC’s walk-in medical clinic has seen many patients whose needs were not being met through other services. Over the years, TFC has added many clinics specifically designed to bridge identified gaps in service. Today, The Free Clinics offers:
- Acute Clinical Care: Medical Clinic
- Chronic and Speciality Care: Bridges to Health, Community Case Management, Diabetes Program, Endocrinology Clinic, Eye Clinic, The Phoenix Project
- Behavioral Health Services: Care Navigation, Counseling, Henderson County Detention Center, Naloxone, PORT (Post-Overdose Response Team), Psychiatric Clinic
- Pharmaceutical Support: Community Pharmacy, Medi-Find Prescription Assistance Program, Medication Therapy Management, Naloxone
- Community Health: Bikes 4 Life, Community Garden, Detention Center, Patient Health Advocacy
- Screening and Prevention: Flu Shot Clinic, Wellness Screenings
How can I support The Free Clinics?
The Free Clinics is a community-based, volunteer-driven organization. To meet their mission and provide care, they need regular support from the community and volunteers. Here are a few ways you can help.
Donate – Every dollar you donate to The Free Clinics translate to around $7.50 in care to your neighbors in need. Make your donation here.
Volunteer – Volunteers are the foundation of TFC. Volunteers at TFC range from clinicians to lay people. All volunteers work to provide clinical visits, answer phones, conduct eligibility screenings, and translate for Spanish-speaking patients. Some volunteers work once a week, while others work once a month, quarterly, or on certain occasions. See their volunteer opportunities here.
Corporate Sponsorship – Do you own your own business and are looking to give back? Sponsors are healthcare heroes, and every sponsorship touches, changes, and saves the lives of neighbors in need. Learn more here.
Get more by giving back
At Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity and means to Live Abundantly in WNC—and that starts with good health. Donate time and money to an organization like The Free Clinics that means something to you. Reach out to The Free Clinics or contact your Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks agent to learn about local healthcare nonprofits in your community.
The Free Clinics
841 Case Street, Hendersonville | (828) 697-8422
60 Walker Street, Suite I, Columbus | (828) 722-1200
