IMPACT
Our Impact in 2022
Patient Stories
“My world turned upside down when my back finally couldn’t take the physical demands of my job with a local moving company. I have always been a strong and healthy person, but after years of lifting heavy furniture, including refrigerators and pianos, I was at the point where getting out of bed was a daily struggle. My body just couldn’t keep doing this type of work and I knew I had to make a job change. Finding a less physically demanding job in this economy and not having a college degree has been tough. I have been able to pick up some part time work, but nothing that offers me benefits. I sure hope one of these days I can find something with health insurance. I am a hard worker and don’t like to ask for help, but right now I don’t really have any choice. All of this stress in my life added to my blood pressure going high. With my family history of heart disease, I knew it was nothing I could mess around with. I went to the Free Clinic to see if I could get some help. They put me on a blood pressure medication that we have been monitoring. The volunteers at the Free Clinic are amazing and didn’t make me feel embarrassed about using The Free Clinic. The Free Clinic has literally saved my life by getting my blood pressure regulated.”
~A Middle Aged Young Man
“I am thankful that the Free Clinic was there for me after going through a divorce that left me in a position without health insurance. My children were covered under their father’s insurance plan, but since we were no longer married, I was not eligible. I am working to get health insurance, but it is going to take some time to get things figured out since I don’t earn enough money to purchase a private policy. I am hoping to go to school to earn a certificate to improve my employment situation. In the meantime, I am relieved to have a place to turn for medical attention when I need it. I am in good health overall, but I never know when something might come up that I need to see a doctor. The peace of mind the Free Clinic provides me is priceless during this transitional time in my life. I will get back on my feet and be in a better place than I am today. I believe in helping others, and look forward to returning the favor in ways that I can in the future.”
~A Recently Divorced Mother
• “Without it I would not be the person I am today. Thank you for all that everyone does each week”.
• “I work a part time job, so I don’t have insurance and can’t afford healthcare or prescriptions. Having asthma and high blood pressure I would not be able to take care of this without the wonderful nurses and doctors at the Free Clinic. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
• “In these times, the clinic has kept me healthy.”
• “It is the only medical place where I can a doctor and get medications.”
• “I am unable to afford medications on my income.”
• “They have kept me on track and healthy with managing my diabetes.”
• “I am able to get the medications I need to make it through each day with ease.”
• “The medications have helped me with everyday life to have a normal feeling day. No anxieties and able to get out of bed and get along with life.”
• “I don’t have health insurance, but I am still able to see a doctor to take care of my health needs.”
Our Demographics
Donor Stories
“The recent newsletter concerning the Free Clinic was such a tribute to the folks who live in Pierce and St. Croix Counties! It is remarkable to care as much as these individuals, businesses and others care. Although I have been retired for 22 years in Florida, my heart remains in River Falls and i am proud of my former neighbors. Bless you all!”
Free Clinic Financial Donor
“United Way St. Croix Valley is proud to provide support for the Free Clinic of Pierce & St. Croix Counties. The Free Clinic provides essential health services for those that are uninsured and income eligible. I’ve been amazed at the passion and dedication of the many professionals who staff the weekly clinic. They saw a need in our communities and came together to meet that need.”
John M. Coughlin, Executive Director, United Way St. Croix Valley