BBF remains focused on providing critical support to communities impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. By funding Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and free clinics, we are helping to restore healthcare services and address ongoing recovery needs in the hardest-hit areas.

Grants to Federally Qualified Health Centers

FQHCs, or Federally Qualified Health Centers, are federally funded nonprofit clinics that provide primary care to medically underserved populations. They ensure access to healthcare regardless of one’s ability to pay. To support recovery efforts after Hurricanes Milton and Helene, BBF awarded grants to three FQHCs in North Carolina and Florida, helping them restore operations and meet critical needs in their communities.

Blue Ridge Community Health Services, Inc., North Carolina: BBF’s grant will be used help to offset the financial strain from offering free emergency services to impacted areas in Western NC, ensuring critical care remained accessible.

Mountain Area Health Education Center, Inc., North Carolina: BBF’s grant will be used to fully restore clinical services and maintain high-quality patient care in a region already grappling with limited healthcare access.

MCR Health Inc., Florida: BBF’s grant will support recovery from Hurricane Milton’s operational disruptions, ensuring staff retention and the continuation of care during facility closures.

Grants to Free Clinics

Free clinics are a lifeline for many, particularly after natural disasters. BBF has provided grants to the following free clinics to help them continue to meet the needs of their communities:

We Care Manatee, Inc., Bradenton, FL: BBF’s grant is helping to provide food, shelter, repairs, and medical needs for patients directly impacted by Hurricane Milton. A thorough intake process ensures these resources reach those most in need.

Oceana Community Health, Inc., Fort Pierce, FL: BBF’s grant will help expand healthcare access to Spanish Lakes, a community devastated by tornadoes during Hurricane Milton. The grant will also support their emergency medical response and disaster relief initiative, which provides acute care/triage and resource distribution.

ABCCM Doctors’ Medical Clinic, Asheville, NC: BBF funding will be used to replace lost medications, support emergency pharmacy operations, and ensure clinic functionality during disaster recovery efforts.

Hunger and Health Coalition in Boone, NC: BBF’s grant will fund pharmacy operations providing direct relief, including purchasing medicine and ensuring those in need have access to their prescriptions.