Living in an area with at 70 percent or above poverty rate, it is easy to see how many area residents forego much needed dental, medical and vision screenings due to lack of income or adequate insurance to cover the expenses. 

The Arkansas Baptist State Convention in collaboration with local Southern Baptist churches began a few years ago doing between 10-12 free clinics each year through the state of Arkansas, often in the most needy areas. 

The free clinic will be held April 9 at the First Baptist Church in Cherokee Village beginning at 8 a.m. until the last patient’s needs are addressed. 

The services are free to the public with no income verification will be asked for or required.

Sandy McCullough a spokesperson for the local event said, “We get dentists all over Arkansas to come and pull teeth for Free. They only do extractions but they will also do free screenings. We also have dental hygienist’s come and do free cleanings. From time to time we have medical doctors and eye doctors who will also come serve and give free screenings. Our eye doctors can only do screenings because they cannot bring their equipment because of state regulations. And they cannot give prescriptions. This is why we must say: Free eye screenings given.”

While at the clinic, the patients will also be given the opportunity to hear the gospel. McCullough said often the clinics see over 100 patients and average three to seven salvations at each clinic. 

Lunch will be provided. McCullough explained patient procedures for the clinic. “Patients must wear and mask and can bring one support person with them unless it is a family with children. Masks will also be provided. The address is First Baptist Church in Cherokee Village at 6 Iroquois. Next to the middle school. People can come and start lining up at 7:30 or even earlier if they choose. Just look for the registration signs on the front door. This is where they can line up. They will be taken in order of their arrival and will not loose their place in line throughout the clinic regardless of how many of these services they choose to see.”

For more information, contact, Jennifer Allbritton 870-450-1855 or Sandy McCullough 870-847-5384.