While the debate over health care swirls in Congress and around the country, a North Philadelphia church is stepping in to make sure residents get the care they need.
This weekend, the Seventh Day Adventist Church in North Philadelphia is hosting a free, two day health clinic and community event that is open to anyone. The clinics will take place on Friday, July 14 and Sunday, July 16. The church is trying to provide vital health care for those who aren’t insured.
“We really want people to know it is free and take advantage of the service we’re offering,” says Lorraine Joseph, a member of the North Philadelphia Seventh Day Adventist Church and one of the the clinic's organizers.
The medical services and events are all free and open to the public. No appointments are necessary, but all services are first come, first served. A government ID is required to be treated.
All of the events will take place at 16th and Oxford Streets, right near Temple University’s main campus. Here are the services that are being offered:
Friday, July 14 & Sunday, July 16 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
- Dental: Fillings, Extractions, Cleanings, Restorative work
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- Vision: Eye exams, prescriptions
Saturday, July 15 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Blood pressure screening
- Glucose/cholesterol screening
- Community breakfast at 9 a.m.
Medical services are supported by AMEN, the Adventist Medical Evangelism Network. AMEN is a non-profit that provides free dental and medical care to the uninsured or under-insured through a network of physicians and dentists.
The Church will also be throwing a block party for the community Saturday afternoon, with live music, games, and giveaways.
“We’re just so happy that we can service the community,” Joesph said. “There’s so much people that don’t have insurance and they can take advantage (of this).”
For more information on the clinics, click here.
