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Each year, the Davie County Hospital Foundation Fund provides essential support for projects aimed at improving healthcare in Davie County.

This August, the Davie Community Foundation awarded $32,891 in grants to five organizations to support initiatives that enhance healthcare services.

A grant of $10,000 went to A Storehouse for Jesus to help with medical needs of uninsured and low-income residents.

“This crucial funding will enhance the clinic’s ability to provide essential medical care and further its mission to help those in need,” said Jane Simpson, foundation president and CEO. The $10,000 will be allocated for the purchase of clinic/patient supplies, prescription medications and medical laboratory tests.

A Storehouse for Jesus is the only free medical clinic in Davie County. In 2023, they served 365 patients with a total of 1,329 clinic visits. The clinic practice is staffed with medical doctors, physician assistants, nurses, nursing assistants, laboratory technicians, pharmacists, translators and clerical support staff, all of whom donate their time and expertise.

• Davie County Recreation and Parks was awarded $2,200 for the purchase of an automated external defibrillator (AED). The AED will be stationed at the ballfield for baseball and softball games and will serve as a backup unit when not in use during those games.

“In the event of a medical emergency, having an AED on site can significantly increase the chances of survival by providing immediate treatment before professional medical help arrives. With the high volume of games, this addition will help provide improved safety and peace of mind for players, coaches and spectators,” Simpson said.

• The Bridge @ 197 Main received $15,000 to contribute towards the salary for a part-time faith community nurse. The Bridge @ 197 Main offers a multi-modal ministry to address the social complexities and disparities of neighbors in Cooleemee.

Currently, The Bridge @ 197 Main offers The Bridge Church, The Last Mile transportation services and Agape Home Health Services. They are partnering with Davie Senior Services.

In collaboration with Atrium Health’s Faith Community Nurse program, the Bridge @ 197 Main will be able to expand the community health impact with the addition of the faith community nurse. Faith community nurses are integrated into a particular community or organization to provide training, health education and health screenings. They track metrics and follow patients to evaluate the effectiveness of their interventions.

• Make-A-Wish Central and Western NC was granted $3,750 to fund a wish for a child in Davie County. As the nation’s largest wish-granting organization, Make-A-Wish provides hope and strength to children battling critical illnesses. A wish offers a moment of happiness and emotional support.

“Make-A-Wish’s work is truly transformative, providing a sense of normalcy and strength that can be crucial in their fight. The awarded grant funds will help to advance their goal of granting every wish for every eligible child within Davie County,” Simpson said.

• Trellis Supportive Care received $1,941 to support their Charitable Care program and Patient Assistance Program for patients in Davie County.

“Trellis Supportive Care seeks to deliver exceptional and comprehensive hospice, palliative and grief care to anyone in our community in need of those services,” Simpson said. The Charitable Care program provides hospice care for under-insured or uninsured patients and their Patient Assistance program offers financial support for costs like funeral services or utility bills for low-income patients and their families. “This grant will help Trellis Supportive Care continue to provide compassionate care for individuals with life-limiting illnesses in Davie County.

“The grants awarded this year reflect a deep commitment from the Davie Community Foundation to enhancing healthcare and support services in Davie County. Each organization plays a vital role in improving the lives of residents and supporting the wellbeing of our community. Collectively, we are making a difference and fostering a stronger, healthier community. We look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact of these initiatives and the ongoing generosity of those who contribute to these essential causes,” she said.

To learn more about the foundation, contact Simpson at (336) 753-6903 or jsimpson@daviefoundation.org or visit www.daviefoundation.org.