October 2006 - Some of Southwest Community Health Center's most vulnerable patients who are at high risk of developing pneumonia are receiving extra protection this fall, thanks to the Santa Rosa East Rotary Club. The club granted $1,000 to SCHC to pay for pneumonia vaccinations, which was matched by an additional $1,000 grant from the Rotary International Blane Community Immunization Fund. The money will cover the cost of 57 vaccinations for uninsured patients aged 50-65 who are diabetic or who have pulmonary or other chronic diseases. SCHC serves 450 patients through our Lombardi Court and Chanate clinics who meet these criteria.

SR Rotary East Past President Linda Christopher initiated this local effort. The local club is one of 314 Rotary groups nationwide to receive matching grant funding for immunizations this year. Mary Maddux-Gonzalez, Sonoma County Public Health Officer, identified the need for more pneumococcal vaccinations as a local public health matter and directed the Rotary Club to work with SCHC.

"This partly addresses a serious health disparity in our community which is due largely to lack of access and resources. This vaccine is a basic health need that everyone should have. These immunizations will have a positive health impact on those who most need them," says Cindy Dickinson, SCHC Director of Clinical Services, who is working with local Rotary Club members to implement the vaccination program.

"This project is a way for Rotary to make a significant impact in serving our local community," notes Mike Robertson, current president of SR Rotary East. "This project meets our organization's goals of building good will, better friendship, and benefiting all concerned."

This is the not the first time SCHC has partnered with local Rotary clubs to bring needed services to the uninsured. The Lions' Vison Center opened in the Chanate Health Center in 2005. More »

You can help SCHC bring more health care services to the uninsured. More »