Grace Medical Home, Black Nurses Association Bring Health Services to Eatonville

Grace Medical Home and the Central Florida Black Nurses Association partnered to bring health education and resources to residents in the historic town of Eatonville during a recent community outreach event.

Grace Medical Home sets up mobile-unit bus to show Eatovnille residents an easy way to access healthcare.

The event, supported by a grant from the Winter Park Health Foundation, featured a health talk and opportunities for attendees to connect with available services. The goal was to inform residents about medical resources and encourage participation in ongoing health initiatives.

“Grace Medical Home is a full-service clinic for the uninsured,” said Betsey Culpepper, community engagement director for Grace Medical Home. “We offer primary care, specialty care, dental, mental health services, social services, and have an on-site food pantry and medication storage room.”

Culpepper said Orange County has more than 160,000 uninsured individuals, many of whom are employed but either do not receive health benefits through their jobs or cannot afford private insurance.

“These are people with part-time jobs or multiple jobs who are not eligible for employer-sponsored benefits,” said Culpepper. “Some have to choose between paying for health care or basic needs like food and housing.”

A mobile medical unit was on display during the event to help demonstrate what receiving care through Grace Medical Home might look like for new patients. The mobile unit travels to different parts of Orange County and provides access to care for patients with transportation challenges.

Stocked with essential medical supplies, the mobile clinic ensures on-the-go care, from first aid to chronic condition management, reaching patients where they are

“Our mobile unit allows patients to receive care in or near their neighborhoods,” said Culpepper. “It also serves as an introduction for individuals who may be interested in applying for care.”

At least three individuals submitted applications to become patients during the event, according to Culpepper.

Eatonville resident Shonda Jackson said the event provided valuable information and access for community members who may not regularly visit a doctor.

“This gives people a chance to learn what’s available if they don’t have insurance,” said Jackson. “It’s helpful for those who are working but still can’t afford regular medical visits.”

Jackson said the opportunity to meet directly with staff and ask questions was a key part of the experience.

"Not only is it this event free, it also has valuable resources the community can benefit from," said Jackson.

Culpepper said the partnership with the Central Florida Black Nurses Association was essential to the event’s success.

The mobile medical unit offers vital healthcare services to underserved communities, bringing checkups, vaccinations, and screenings directly to residents in need.

“The nurses bring community knowledge and credibility, while we provide medical services and infrastructure,” said Culpepper. “Together, we aim to improve access to care for underserved populations.”

The partnership plans to continue outreach efforts throughout Orange County over the next several months.