AEC Hosts Its First Free Health Clinic
Allegheny East recently hosted its first Deliverance Adventist Health Clinic in the city of Philadelphia, bringing free health services and community resources to the residents of Philadelphia. Held at the Alan Horwitz “Sixth Man” Center, the two-day community health initiative provided an opportunity for individuals and families to receive much-needed services at no cost.
The clinic was a vision of AEC President Dr. Trevor Kinlock after observing a previous initiative in Baltimore last year. The Delaware Valley Area pastors and our Health Ministries Department (Dr. Anthony Medley) formed a team to help bring the clinic to fruition. Betsy Johnson, BSN, RN, FCN and Kathleen Coleman, MPH, BSN, RN, both from the Emmanuel Brinklow church (Ashton, Md) served as coordinators for the clinic. Collaborating with community partners, such as Love Heals, Hands International, and Better Vision, Better Hope, and Spin-n-Go, the clinic offered a variety of services, including dental and vision care, medical and preventive health services, and additional resources designed to meet practical needs within the community. No insurance or appointment was required, helping make the event accessible to those who may otherwise face barriers to receiving care.
From the early morning hours, volunteers from local churches and beyond welcomed community members and helped guide them through the various services available. “There was no greater joy than seeing and interacting with those who were blessed by the free clinic meeting their medical needs, as well providing the homeless community an opportunity to launder their clothing while awaiting medical treatment," said Dr. Marleena Debrough, Delaware Valley Area Ministerium Coordinator. “The only disappointment was that we were not able to help more.”
The people served represented more than a number. For organizers and volunteers, the clinic was an opportunity to demonstrate Christ-centered compassion through practical service. Attendees received care while also connecting with people who were committed to serving their community.
“I am deeply fulfilled. Together, our dental team cared for more than 120 patients, but what touched me most was the genuine compassion, kindness, and enthusiasm of every volunteer. Everyone came with one purpose: to serve and provide the very best care to every patient who walked through our doors,” Dr. Joan Malcom, DMD, clinic dental director.
Through the combined efforts of Deliverance Adventist Health Clinic and its community partners, volunteers were able to provide a broader range of services and resources than any one organization could have provided alone. “And perhaps the greatest testament to the experience was the question I kept hearing from our dental volunteers: ‘When is the next one?’ That spirit of service says it all," shared Malcom