Carpenter’s Shelter Medical Team Wins Public Health Award
Reception to be held Thursday, July 11 from 5–6:30 p.m. at Carpenter’s Shelter
Alexandria, VA – The Alexandria Health Department and Public Health Advisory Commission announced today that the Carpenter’s Shelter medical team is the winner of this year’s Flora Krause Casey Public Health Award.
The volunteer team, led by Dr. Laurence Clark, ensures that the medical services offered to patients of the free, on-site clinic, meet various needs. Services are not only available to the shelter’s residents, but also the uninsured homeless community at large. The clinic is open one evening per week.
Volunteers include licensed and practicing nurses, who work at various area hospitals. They provide both immediate treatment and long-term care referrals. Clark and the team also conduct physical exams, lab work, and medical education. If deemed necessary, Clark prescribes medication and administers vaccines.
The Flora Krause Casey Award recognizes any individual or group who makes a significant impact on public health in Alexandria and protects the well-being of all citizens.
Casey lived in Alexandria for years. Working in the 1930s, she took on the responsibility of overseeing pre-camp exams at the Kiwanis Club. That experience led her to realize that economically disadvantaged families need access to better medical care. The Carpenter’s Shelter medical team follows her example today.
There will be a public reception on July 11 from 5–6:30 p.m. at the Carpenter’s Shelter, located at 5701-D Duke Street.
