PELHAM – Community of Hope Health Clinic raised about $16,000 at its inaugural fundraising dinner that was held at the Pelham Civic Complex on Tuesday, May 9.

CHHC executive director Justin Johnston said 120-130 guests attended the dinner with former Alabama, NFL and CFL football player Thomas Rayam as the guest speaker.

During the event, guests learned about CHHC and the services it provides and were asked to make a donation to the clinic. Donations from the fundraiser will go toward administration and maintenance costs and medical supplies to make sure the clinic is properly equipped to treat patients.

CHHC, located at 2000 County Services Drive, is the only free clinic for ages 19-64 in Shelby County. The clinic provides free health care to uninsured Shelby County residents who are at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guideline, Johnston said.

The clinic functions as a primary care facility offering routine, non-emergency, preventative medical care. Johnston said the clinic served about 1,700 residents in 2016 and have provided medical services for about 500 residents so far this year.

“Our goal is to be a home for those who don’t have health insurance or access to medical services,” Johnston said.

Prior to the fundraiser, Johnston said he would shave his beard off if at least $20,000 was raised. Johnston said its not too late to donate to the clinic to help them reach their goal.

For more information about CHHC or to donate, contact Johnston at chhc.executivedirector@gmail.com or 685-4154.