Everyone has felt the effects of the social distancing efforts and the Gloucester-Mathews Care Clinic (GMCC), is no exception. Per the guidelines authorized by the Governor last month, this meant converting medical practice to curbside service.
While the team is not treating Coronavirus symptoms at their facility, they are continuing regular care for the patients that need them. Services like refilling prescriptions, taking strep cultures, and other typical medical treatment at the patient’s car.
“It’s been a challenge, but we’re learning,” said Arlene Armentor, the GMCC’s Executive Director. “We’re caring for our patients in ways we never thought possible. At the end of the day, it feels good to know we’re meeting the needs of our patients, supporting our hospital system, and helping our community.”
Sadly, this change also meant that the 15th Annual Casino Night (scheduled for Saturday, March 21) also had to be postponed. The decision was a no brainer, but this event is the Clinic’s biggest fundraiser of the year. It also brought those needed funds in at the beginning of the year to help with planning.
On a different note
It just so happens that several of the Clinic’s friends make up the rock ensemble known as The Ballast Band. The Gloucester residents met up at Flat Iron Crossroads on March 29 to provide a virtual concert to help raise the additional funds. It was a success as the two and a half hour concert raised almost $2000 and received a lot of engagement from the community.
More funds are needed, and your note counts
The link for the concert is still up for your listening pleasure. Perhaps you could open the windows, clean the house and sing along. If you’re in a position to support their cause, maybe you wouldn’t mind contributing to it too.
It might not be the same as taking chances at a casino, but it will still provide big wins for those in the community. If you act now, Chesapeake Bank is matching the first $500 in donations received.