The Free Clinics, an organization that helps uninsured, low income people receive quality health care, received a major donation on Thursday.
The community of Cummings Cove spent the last year raising $56,000 for the nonprofit.
It’s the single-largest donation to date presented to The Free Clinics and the largest ever collected by Cummings Cove, which has orchestrated a community-wide fundraiser for a local charity every three years since 2012.
“I was blown away when I saw the amount on that check," said Judith Long, executive director of The Free Clinics. "It surpassed any of my hopes or dreams or expectations.”
Cummings Cove was able to raise this money through a variety of community projects and activities.
"I am so proud of our neighborhood and our outstanding campaign that has raised the most money ever for a community organization. We were very successful because so many neighbors gave of their talent and time and generously donated to support The Free Clinics," said Donna Izor, chairwoman of Cummings Cove Cares. "We are proud to be joining with The Free Clinics in their mission of caring for neighbors in need.”
Long told News 13 the donation will help the nonprofit serve even more of its clients.
“This community — Henderson County — invests in its neighbors. It cares about our children. It cares about our vulnerable neighbors, and this is proof and evidence,” added Long. “And these moments — they remind — they speak to my heart that what we do for our neighbors it affects us all.”
Long said the funds raised will help The Free Clinics start a supportive job training program.
It is a new project that will provide additional help to the people served outside of the normal clinical setting.
Long plans to launch it in the next four to six weeks.
To learn more about the services offered by The Free Clinics, click HERE.