SLU Showcases Ways to Give: Health Resource Center Winter Clothing Drive

Since 1994, the Saint Louis University Health Resource Center has provided free health care services in an academic environment. Also since 1994, the SLU community has stepped up to help School of Medicine students and faculty support their patients in other ways.

This year, the Physical Therapy program is conducting its second annual winter apparel drive for HRC patients. The PT program will accept donations until Friday, Dec. 13.

To care for patients at the North Kingshighway clinic, first- and second-year medical school students take patient histories. Third- and fourth-year students conduct physicals, and a volunteer faculty member reviews all cases, answers questions and prescribes medication.

To help patients meet their basic needs, the HRC employs a social worker who helps patients tap into community resources; and an insurance navigator who helps patients apply for Medicaid and get connected with medical homes at federally funded community health care centers. 

In addition to a primary care clinic, the HRC offers specialized clinics in asthma and allergies, cardiology, diabetes, physical therapy, psychiatry, smoking cessation, sight and a well woman clinic. In 2017, the HRC began offering clinics run by students training to be physician assistants and nursing students as well as a monthly geriatric clinic.

Individuals can drop off donations in the Physical Therapy Office in the Allied Health Professionals Building, Room 1023, between 8 a.m and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. 

Needed winter clothing items include coats, hats, mittens/gloves, scarves, socks, sweaters, boots and other winter apparel. 

As the holiday season approaches, Saint Louis University is highlighting organizations at SLU that could benefit from the gift of time or donations. To suggest a group or organization, contact Jeff Ackels at jeff.ackels@slu.edu.