Courtesy of Kirby Carlock
According to one study, as of 2022, more than 25% of Fort Bend County residents did not earn enough to cover basic living expenses, even though they were above the poverty line. . report From United Way Greater Houston.
Local organizations work to provide health care to people in addition to those living below the poverty line in Fort Bend and surrounding areas.
Last year, AccessHealth served approximately 20,000 patients. CEO Mike Dotson said about half of them were uninsured.
“We've been in this area for 50 years, so most of the people who come to us have heard about us from friends and neighbors, or are their family's health care provider of choice.” he says.
Natalie Weber/Houston Public Media
The organization operates six clinics, five in Fort Bend and one in Waller County. AccessHealth also operates 11 WIC centers and provides nutrition programs for pregnant women and families with young children.
The nonprofit organization was recognized this year by the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce for its services to underserved areas of the county.
“It was a real honor to be nominated and recognized for the work we do,” Dotson said.
AccessHealth provides care from adult and family medicine to HIV and mental health services, in addition to dental care and pharmacy.
The organization employs approximately 250 people, with an additional 20 staff provided by AmeriCorps.
The nonprofit also helps connect patients with food banks and is working on partnering with free legal services for clients.
Although AccessHealth receives federal grants, much of its funding comes from private philanthropic donations.
“If we weren't doing the work that we're doing right now, it would be very difficult for a lot of people to get care,” Dotson said.
