Free Medical Clinic Draws Hundreds

Free medical exams, flu shots and eye tests drew hundreds of people to San Clemente's second annual no-cost medical clinic on Sunday.

Sunny weather prevailed at the 9 a.m. event, which was hosted by and staffed by 350 volunteers from the hospital, nearby universities and the Illumination Foundation, which serves homeless and low-income people.

“In these hard times, everyone is pinching their pennies,” said hospital spokeswoman Sonia Chevallier. “If you’re deciding whether to feed yourself or check your cough, you’re going to feed yourself.”

More than 500 people were expected to show up at the hospital parking lot to receive free blood checkups, pregnancy tests and other services.

“There is a huge need for these free services,” said Illumination Foundation spokeswoman Linda Serio. “Even if people [have insurance], a lot of times the co-pay is still too expensive.”

Medical students, professors, optometrists and doctors donated their time to the clinic.

“I’m seeing a lot of people whose vision is not as sharp, or who used to wear glasses, but now can’t afford them,” said Illumination Foundation volunteer Mary Mackley.

In addition to medical exams, the clinic offered information in English and Spanish on healthy eating habits and allergies.

The Illumination Foundation plans a similar clinic in Garden Grove in March. About 1,800 people are expected, a spokesman said.

For information on how to help, visit ifhomeless.org.