In the heart of Boynton Beach, Caridad Center serves as a source of hope for thousands of individuals in Palm Beach County facing barriers to affordable healthcare, with the support of volunteers from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Established as one of the largest free healthcare providers in the area, Caridad provides primary care, dental care, mental health support, and vision care—completely free of charge to underserved residents. In a region where healthcare disparities are widespread, Caridad’s mission is not just to provide healthcare, but to change lives.
“We’re here to ensure that no one in our community has to go without the care they deserve,” said Jessica Lavin, the Chief Advancement Officer at Caridad Center. “For many, we’re the difference between getting the care they need and having to go without.”
The Caridad Center provides opportunities for involvement for local students, such as those at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Nursing, social work, medicine, or business students can contribute to Caridad’s mission in a variety of ways, from volunteering at the center to assisting with administrative tasks.
“The students who volunteer bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to the work we do,” Lavin said. “They’re not only helping us deliver services but also learning invaluable skills that will serve them throughout their careers.”
PBA’s Workship Program encourages students to get involved as volunteers in the community. Nonprofits like the Caridad Center often draw student involvement.
“I'm eager to volunteer at the Caridad Center because I believe in providing compassionate care to those who need it most,” said Andrew Perry, a nursing student at Palm Beach Atlantic University. “This opportunity allows me to apply what I've learned in the classroom while making an impact in the community, especially for those facing barriers to healthcare."
Caridad’s impact extends far, and its services have been in higher demand as healthcare needs have grown. With a large portion of the community uninsured or underinsured, Caridad tries to step in and fill the gap.
Offering primary care services, Caridad provides patients with routine check-ups, management of chronic conditions, and preventive care. The dental clinic provides everything from cleanings to emergency procedures, while the mental health department offers counseling and therapy to those dealing with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges.
Caridad offers more than medical care. They strive to build trust with the community and offer a safe space offering a safe space for individuals who may otherwise feel marginalized or ignored by the healthcare system. The center’s approach to holistic care, one that embraces mental, emotional, and physical health, is designed for patients to heal in a comprehensive and compassionate environment.
Despite its success, Caridad faces significant challenges. The center experiences a significant demand for its medical, dental, vision, and behavioral health services. In 2023, Caridad Center provided over 84,000 patient visits, highlighting the extensive need for accessible healthcare in the community. The center operates on a limited budget, relying heavily on donations, grants, and the efforts of volunteers.
The community’s need for services often exceeds its capacity to provide, and as demand continues to grow, Caridad is constantly seeking ways to expand its operations, improve its services, and encourage volunteers to make a difference.
Caridad Center sees itself not just as a healthcare facility, but a community lifeline. They hope to be a place where underserved individuals receive care, and where the next generation of healthcare professionals can cultivate their passion for service. As Palm Beach County continues to face healthcare disparities, Caridad works to support those in need.
Quality healthcare is often a privilege, so Caridad Center tries to remind the public that everyone deserves a chance at a healthier life. For those who walk through its doors, it’s not just about treatment—it’s about hope, dignity, and “the transformation of lives with compassion.”
By Chloe Nepveux
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