Patricia Heaton steps out to support Claris Health--an organization dedicated to providing free and low cost healthcare to people in need.
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist
Patricia Heaton has taken center stage as one of America's favorite TV moms for the last couple of decades starring on hits "Everybody Loves Raymond," and "The Middle." The Emmy-winning actress is now the lead on the new CBS sitcom "Carol's Second Act" where she plays a divorcee in her fifties who begins a new career. While the veteran actress remains one of the most in demand people in Hollywood, she still finds time to give back.
Heaton recently attended the Claris Health City Lights Gala, which raised over $200,000. The organization has created a custom mobile unit vehicle that will visit 27 sites monthly throughout Los Angeles County. The areas the mobile clinic will be visiting are known for limited access to health care and a high mistrust of the medical community. The first stop will be in Compton on Oct. 27 at Shields for Families.
“I’ve been a supporter of Claris Health for many years and love their unique approach to care," Patricia Heaton said. "They provide compassionate, non-judgemental support to women and families in need. This mobile clinic will go the extra mile reaching those who lack access to healthcare and need to know they are not alone.”
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Claris Health’s mission is to equip and care for women and their families before, during, and after pregnancy and sexual health choices. Patients who come to Claris are provided with information regarding pregnancy options and ongoing support through direct services and a network of over 190 committed community partners. Free and low-cost services include medical care, education, support, and community resources. Claris continues to expand its scope of services while implementing innovative, evidence-based programs that respond to overall individual and community health needs.
“Shields for Families is very excited for the mobile unit... healthcare is an important part of our treatment model, and we work diligently to incorporate health into all elements of treatment. The mobile unit will allow direct access to health care, and allow us to assist all of our families with developing skills to ensure health care and routine check-ups become a regular practice in their lives. We look forward to our continued partnership, and seeing all of our families take advantage of this amazing opportunity!” - Danielle Lowe, Youth Services Director, Shields for Families stated.
In the last year, 1,700 patients have been seen and Claris Health has served over 7,000 men, women & teens throughout Los Angeles with their services.
About Claris Health:
Claris Health is a Los Angeles based 501(c)3 organization that educates and supports women and men facing an unintended pregnancy or other sexual health issues. Claris Health’s story began over 40 years ago when a small group of women were inspired to start an organization that offered life-changing services to women, men, and families. Their mission from the start has been to equip and care for individuals and their families, before, during, and after pregnancy and sexual health choices. The organization provides free or low cost medical, support, therapy, parenting and educational services to women, men and families with children under the age of five.