CHICAGO — Residents of Chicago’s Roseland neighborhood received free health care services over the weekend as part of an expanding citywide effort to improve public health access, especially in underserved areas.
The event took place at Roseland’s Missionary Baptist Church on Sunday, where community members were able to take advantage of free vaccinations and health screenings, including breast exams, prostate checks, and more. The event marked the latest initiative from the First Ladies Health Initiative, a nonprofit that partners with local churches to deliver critical health services at no cost.
Growing Community Impact
Carolyn Smith, a participant at the clinic, emphasized the value of the program, stating:
“We need to know what’s going on with our bodies, and free health fairs like these are what’s going to keep us alive.”
The Roseland health fair is part of an annual event that saw significant growth this year — expanding from seven participating churches last year to 15 this year. That growth signals a heightened demand for accessible medical services in communities where traditional clinics may be limited or unaffordable.
Bridging the Health Care Gap
Faith-based leaders say the need is especially pressing in communities like Roseland. Rev. E.J. Davis, one of the local organizers, explained the urgency:
“Being in the community, such as Roseland, where there is a shortage of clinics — a lot of our parishioners do not have insurance where they can go and have vaccinations, or breast exams, or prostate tests.”
Through community collaboration and outreach, the First Ladies Health Initiative aims to bridge the health equity gap. Founded in 2008, the organization has partnered with churches and faith leaders across the country to offer free services directly where people live and worship.
A National Movement with Local Roots
The initiative continues to grow beyond Chicago. Its mission to deliver healthcare through faith-based partnerships provides a model for addressing both health disparities and trust issues in marginalized communities.
For more information or to find upcoming events, visit the First Ladies Health Initiative website.
The Roseland clinic is just one of many examples of how grassroots, church-led health programs are making a difference across the city. As Chicago continues grappling with systemic barriers to care, community-based health outreach remains an essential lifeline for thousands of residents.
Have you or your family attended a free health clinic in your neighborhood? Share your experience with us in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
