December 5, 2006 - Western Tidewater Free Clinic (WTFC) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a grant from the Rotary Foundation under its District Simplified Grants program 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 WTFC and to execute a project that is titled The Rotary District Area 10 Access to Health Care Partnership. Through this project Rotary Club members will advocate, promote volunteerism, and actively support the work of the clinic.
M. Caroline Martin, WTFC Executive Director says “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. 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.” states Hunter Odom, Suffolk Rotary Public Service Committee Chair.
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 WTFC is improving the health and giving hope to over 760 patients. To volunteer or learn about the clinic’s work, please call (757)923-1060 or to make a contribution, send your check to 3000 Godwin Blvd, Suffolk, VA 23434.
Pictured are:
Dale Steffensmeier – Smithfield Rotary Club President-Elect
Tom Conway – North Suffolk Rotary Club President
Stephie Broadwater, WTFC Development & PR Chair
M Caroline Martin – WTFC Executive Director
Hunter Odom – Suffolk Rotary Club Public Service Chair
William D. Pollard, Jr. – Rotary District Governor
Everett Birdsong – Suffolk Rotary Club President
Bill Billings – Franklin Rotary Club President
For questions or additional information, contact:
Ms. Stephie Broadwater or Mr. Hunter Odom
WTFC, Development Chair Suffolk Rotary, Project Manager
(757)356-1248 (757)539-5556