Western Tidewater Free Clinic has been awarded a grant from the Rotary Foundation under its District Simplified Grants program and in conjunction with donations from the Franklin, Smithfield, Suffolk and North Suffolk Rotary clubs.

The total gift is $25,000. The four (4) local Rotary Clubs came together to collaborate with the clinic and put together the Rotary District Area 10 Access to Health Care Partnership.

Through the project, Rotary Club members will advocate, promote volunteerism and support the work of the clinic.

M. Caroline Martin, WTFC executive director said, “We are pleased to form this partnership with Rotary – an organization that plays an active leadership role in its communities. Engaging Rotary members in advocacy and outreach will have a significant and positive effect on volunteerism and commitment to the work of Western Tidewater Free Clinic.”

“In keeping with the 2008-2009 Rotary theme, ‘Make Dreams Real,’ the four-club collaborative project is designed to enhance access to health care and help reduce child mortality rates through Rotarian involvement,” said Hunter Odom, Suffolk Rotary Public Service Committee Chair.

“We feel that the Western Tidewater Free Clinic provides an invaluable service to our community and fulfills a growing need that our communities have had for quite some time. We are proud to be a part of and associated with such a worthwhile project.”

Western Tidewater Free Clinic’s mission is to provide high-quality, non-emergency health care to residents of Western Tidewater who cannot otherwise afford it. It has been open since June 2007.

Currently the clinic is improving the health and giving hope to more than 760 patients. To volunteer or learn about the clinic’s work, call 923-1060. To make a contribution, send your check to 3000 Godwin Blvd, Suffolk, VA 23434.