A Day of Caring, Searcy

SEARCY — Unity Health recently held its 21st annual A Day of Caring. A total of 1,340 participants received assistance through the day of medical mission, which helps uninsured and underinsured residents of White County and surrounding areas. This year, more than 450 volunteers from Unity Health and the community joined to serve at the outreach event, which took place in the newly remodeled Harding University Ganus Athletic Center. Also, 26 local organizations set up booths to provide educational materials on health and social services to participants. “We are always amazed at the remarkable turnout of volunteers and sponsors,” said Brooke Pryor, Unity Health marketing director. “The spirit of volunteerism in our community is tremendous, and our hospital is proud to be part of a community that cares for its neighbors. Thank you to each volunteer and sponsor who served at A Day of Caring.” Physicians, physician residents, midlevel providers, dentists, eye doctors and pharmacists from the local medical community donated their time and services to see patients. As a result, 93 medical exams, 136 dental screenings and 76 eye screenings were performed, and prescriptions were filled for 31 participants. Pap exams, depression screenings and blood-sugar checks were also conducted. A total of 590 bags of school supplies and 650 pairs of shoes were given to children who were present. Hair stylists gave 125 haircuts, and 6o car-seat safety checks were performed. Items distributed included 550 bags of groceries, 370 bags of personal-care items and 1,070 Gideon Bibles. Other items given out included additional personal-care products, diapers, and children’s socks and underwear. Also, 1,400 lunches were distributed to participants and volunteers.