The University of Kentucky Salvation Army Clinic has been helping people in Lexington since 1986. The clinic started as a small corner in the Salvation Army dining room and has grown into one of the oldest student-run, free clinics in the country.
The clinic is located at 736 W. Main St. and is open on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Patients can get basic medical care, lab and pharmacy services, nutrition counseling and support for quitting smoking. Once a month, the clinic also offers specialty care in pediatrics, dermatology and eye health.
UK medical students run the clinic, under the supervision of physicians and faculty members. Students fill 30 leadership positions and more than 100 volunteer each year, handling everything from welcoming patients to managing supplies. Up to eight patients are seen on a regular evening. The clinic has some supply of common prescriptions and over the counter medication is provided for free. They can even provide short-term medication at discounted prices, which helps people while they wait to get regular care or insurance.
Fundraising events
There are two upcoming fundraisers hosted by UK College of Medicine students to benefit the Salvation Army Clinic. The clinic depends on donations and events to keep its doors open.
- Miles for Medicine 5K: Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 a.m.-noon. Sign up to run or walk at scenic Coldstream Park to raise funds to support the University of Kentucky College of Medicine Salvation Army Clinic.
- Casino Night: Friday, Nov. 13, 7-10 p.m. Register for a fun evening with blackjack, Texas Hold ’em, raffles and silent auctions at Limestone Hall, 215 W. Main St. Ticket sales and donations from the event go directly to the clinic. Financial assistance options are available for those who might struggle to afford tickets.
These events not only raise money but also build community engagement and awareness of the clinic’s mission.
The Salvation Army Clinic is part of the bigger mission of the Salvation Army in Central Kentucky, which also offers food, shelter, addiction recovery programs and youth services. Every donation, event ticket or volunteer hour helps the clinic continue to provide free care to people in the community.