Press release: Bennington Free Clinic to be dedicated January 14

BENNINGTON — All in the community are invited to celebrate the grand opening and dedication of the Bennington Free Health Clinic on Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the clinic's offices at the First Baptist Church, 601 Main St., in downtown Bennington.

Tours of the clinic and volunteer opportunities will be offered throughout the evening. Operations for the clinic will begin the following evening, Thursday, Jan. 15.

The Bennington Free Health Clinic represents the realization of a longtime dream of Dr. Richard Dundas, an internist with 34 years of service treating Bennington-area patients. Along with the Greater Bennington Area Interfaith Council, Dundas has created a free health clinic that will offer care and consultation for uninsured adults.

Guests invited to the Jan. 14 celebration include Governor James Douglas, state legislators, local area officials, and the clergy and lay representatives of the Bennington Interfaith Council. At 6 p.m., formal remarks will be offered by visiting dignitaries as well as by Dundas, who will be the clinic's medical director, and Rabbi Joshua Boettiger, chairman of the Greater Bennington Interfaith Community Services Inc.

At least 40 area medical professionals have come forth as willing to donate their time to the Bennington Free Health Clinic. A number of lay people will also be volunteering

their time to assist with other operational needs. Sue Andrews, manager of the Interfaith Council's community services, is the coordinator of the clinic's administrative work. The Bennington Free Clinic is affiliated with the Vermont Coalition of Clinics for the Uninsured and Volunteers in Medicine.

As part of its historic service to the community, he Greater Bennington Area Interfaith Council has accepted the challenge to partner with the Free Health Clinic. In late 2008, the council voted to amend the bylaws of their 501(c)3 organization, long known as "The Food & Fuel Fund," to continue the critical work of providing funds for area residents with housing, fuel, or food needs, while expanding the mission and governance of the non-profit to include new initiatives such as the Free Health Clinic. The Greater Bennington Interfaith Community Services Inc. will now serve as the 501(c)3 organization's title, reflecting the council's shift from benevolence work to a wider, more grassroots, approach to addressing vital community needs.

To learn more about the clinic or to volunteer your time and talents, call 447-3700 or write to The Bennington Free Clinic, 601 Main St., P.O. Box 702, Bennington, VT 05201. The Greater Bennington Interfaith Community Services Inc., is a registered 501(c)3 charitable non-profit organization. Donations in support of the new clinic are welcome via the address above.

To request an appointment, call 802-447-3700. Advance appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will be seen as staff are able to accommodate.