Connie Benchoff, the community relationships coordinator of the Viola Startzman Free Clinic (VSFC), was the club’s guest speaker. Her PowerPoint presentation focused on who is served and what services are provided by the clinic. Wayne County residents that are 200 percent of the poverty level, with no access to insurance, Medicare or Medicaid, qualify for free services. Benchoff stated that “15.8 percent of people in Wayne County do not have health insurance. Three out of seven people choose between health care and food, rent, or utilities. In Ohio, 39.4 percent of adults do not have dental coverage.”
The VSFC provides medical care, medicine, dental care, mental health support, and more. The majority of the providers are volunteers, and the need is great. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of the clinic,” said Benchoff. “We receive no federal dollars. For every dollar received, we are able to provide $5 in services.” If you can spread the word, volunteer your time, or make a gift, contact the VSFC at 330-262-2500.
The next Orrville Lions Club meeting will be Sept. 13, at 7:45 a.m., in Dunlap’s community room. Robert Gandee will be speaking about the Tri County Senior Olympics. The public is always welcome.
Published: August 31, 2011









