The doors will remain open at Carelink International in Jupiter thanks to a grant from the Quantum Foundation. The clinic offers free, comprehensive, patient-centered health services to uninsured, low-income residents of all age. Since last year, Carelink has been struggling to keep the free medical care available for residents in Jupiter and surrounding areas. “Due to the economy and the rent at our new facility, it has been tough”, said Ron Maggard founder of Carelink International.
The Quantum Board of Trustees recently approved a $42,000 grant that the clinic will use as operating support. “The funds are truly the only way we could keep providing the care for our patients, we have seen other funders and donors cut or eliminate donations due to the downturn in the economy”, said Maggard. At the same time, the number of patients coming to the clinic is increasing so the need is bigger than ever. While the clinic uses volunteer doctors, nurses and other medical personnel there are still costs associated with keeping the care free to patients.
“Quantum has supported Carelink International for the past 5 years because the mission is aligned with our core promise to Palm Beach County residents to help advance health and access to health care for everyone regardless of their ability to pay ”, said Chris Koehn, Vice President for Programs for Quantum Foundation.
Because of our partners Carelink International Clinic has grown, improved and developed into a fully functional clinic normally open 5 or 6 days of the week to see about 2500 patients annually and to be able to treat nearly every type of medical problem, either in our clinic or through one of our local partners, said Maggard. He hopes the current debate in Washington, D.C. on health care reform will improve access to those who need it the most.
The clinic is located at 224 South Dixie Highway in Jupiter, Florida.
About Quantum Foundation :The mission of the Quantum Foundation is to advance health, education and community betterment for the residents of Palm Beach County. The Quantum Foundation was formed in 1995 with the net proceeds from the sale of JFK Medical Center in Atlantis, Florida.. The Foundation began making grants in Palm Beach County in June of 1997. Since inception, Quantum has awarded more than 700 grants totaling over $80 dollars.