By Brickey Lane
Summer is a great time to update the community on the growth of the Poverello Center! “Poverello” (poor fellow) is derived from the life of St. Francis of Assisi’s devotion to charity and poverty. Father Bill Collins followed this devotion by founding the Poverello Center in Pompano Beach in 1987. The original mission was to provide food for community members who were shamed by society for having AIDS. Now located in Wilton Manors, Poverello is South Florida’s oldest service organization providing nutritious food and wellness for those living with HIV. While this mission continues, their services have expanded.
Already known for the Eat Well Center and thrift stores, Poverello added the Extra Care Clinic to its programs one year ago. The clinic’s goal is to improve care for those who aren’t accessing medical programs to their benefit. Social detriments may hinder patients from visiting traditional care facilities, but Poverello clients may receive help with transportation, rent, and individualized medical plans through the Poverello Center. The welcoming environment run by caring volunteers allows patients to have needs met in an environment free of stigma. The Extra Care Clinic is funded through 304B pharmacy revenues.
In addition to the Extra Care Clinic, The Poverello Center is home to the Eat Well Food Pantry which considers food as medicine. This service has evolved from serving HIV/AIDS clients to those with chronic conditions such as cardiac disease, kidney problems, glycemic disorders, cancer, and other critical illnesses. Food pantry guests receive medically appropriate grocery items tailored to individual medical needs by a certified nutritionist. Consumers may choose from 47 meal options, order online, and have meals delivered or ready for personal pick up. The Eat Well Food Pantry served 3,500 patrons last year. The Food Pantry also distributes food to sixteen other non-profits for charitable use including Broward House, Kids in Distress, and the Pride Center, just to name a few.
Poverello also offers health and lifestyle services. Eat Well participants may take advantage of haircuts, chiropractic services, acupuncture, and a wellness gym. The Wilton Manors and Pompano thrift store proceeds are returned to funding programs. All services are rendered by volunteers. Much appreciation is bestowed upon the 350 volunteers who worked the equivalent of 25 full-time jobs clocking 48,900 volunteer hours last year.
While completing your summer purge this year, don’t forget the Poverello Thrift Stores located in Wilton Manors and Pompano Beach. Donations and purchased items are vital for revenue to continue Poverello programs. Items may be scheduled for pick up or dropped off at either location. While visiting, take advantage of “Snack and Shop” days when treats may be enjoyed while browsing.
The Poverello Center welcomes volunteers and is specifically searching for physicians and nurse practitioners. Monetary and thrift store donations (and shoppers) continue to be important, especially as grocery prices continue to rise. Volunteer hours are always appreciated as the effort to help others benefits all.
