Safe Harbor takes free clinic mobile

Despite its early success

providing free medical care for local residents, Safe Harbor Free Clinic in Stanwood aims to connect with even more patients — specifically, Hispanic minorities who may be hesitant or unable to travel from surrounding communities.

“In our first year of operation, we treated 500 patients,” said Julie Vess, executive director. “Only 17 of which were minorities. We know there is more of a need out there.”

So, the clinic has started going mobile.

“We’ll go to them if it helps,” said Vess.

On Saturday, a team of licensed providers and community volunteers set up a free mobile clinic at Tierra Nueva Church in Burlington to expand services to the outlying area and to “break any fear factor” about visiting the clinic in Stanwood, said Vess.

Free medical assessments and treatment advice were provided along with prescriptions.

Vess attributes the success of the clinic to its team of volunteers.

“Our volunteers are wonderful, wonderful people, willing to take time out of their busy schedule to help out,” said Vess. “And, they always treat people with respect.”

Upgrades to the clinic’s Web site allow the organization’s 185 volunteers to sign up online, identify special skill sets and schedule times of availability.

And, there’s a job suitable for everybody.

From greeters working on the front lines to help people with paperwork, to medical and technology specialists, Safe Harbor Free Clinic welcomes the help of residents.

The volunteer participation is crucial to the clinic’s operation during tough economic times.

The word about our service is getting out, said Vess. Patients have traveled to the Stanwood clinic from as far away as Gig Harbor and Northern Whatcom County.

For more information, visit www.safeharborfreeclinic. org or call 425- 870-7384.

Staff Reporter Adam Stewart: 629-8066 ext. 115 or astewart@scnews.com.