This summer, a series of free health clinics offering dental, vision, and medical services are scheduled to take place across the state of Louisiana. These clinics are part of a partnership between Southern University’s Increasing Clinicians of Diversity project and Love Heals the Boot – Love Health Free Clinics, aimed at bringing essential services to underserved communities. One of these clinics will be held in Opelousas.
All clinics will run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Opelousas clinic is scheduled for June 17 at the Opelousas Civic Center. Additional clinic locations and dates include: June 15 in Baton Rouge at F.G. Clark Activity Center, June 20 in Alexandria at Peabody High School, and June 22 in Shreveport at Shreveport Convention Center.
John Pierre, the executive vice president of the Southern University System, expressed the university’s dedication to serving its community by addressing the current needs of its members. Through the partnership with Love Heals the Boot, Southern University aims to provide no-cost comprehensive care exams to those in need. Last year, these clinics served over 1,400 residents, offering essential healthcare services to individuals who would otherwise lack access.
Donna Collins-Lewis, founder of Baton Rouge Love Heals Free Clinic, shared that the goal of these clinics is to connect individuals and families with healthcare providers for ongoing dental, vision, and medical services. As the director of the clinic, Collins-Lewis is committed to continuing this work to offer much-needed services to Louisiana and beyond.
Organizers have highlighted that no identification, insurance, or appointments are required to attend these clinics. This initiative aims to provide vital healthcare services to communities in need and build partnerships to address healthcare disparities.