Available for purchase in a silent auction are beautifully decorated tables promising an enjoyable and purposeful afternoon!
📍 McGill Baptist Church | 5300 Poplar Tent Rd, Concord, NC 28027
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The Community Free Clinic (CFC), Cabarrus County’s only free clinic, has an open invitation to the 23rd annual Festival of Tables fundraiser on Sept. 29th at McGill Baptist Church.
🍽️ The luncheon brings together community members, local sponsors, and donors to support a worthy cause—providing vital healthcare and medications to those in need. For almost three decades, the Community Free Clinic has been a lifeline for low-income uninsured adults in Cabarrus County.
The Festival of Tables is a community-led initiative which event relies on local sponsors and donors to raise funds for the Clinic’s operations. The name comes from community members who act as Table Hosts and decorate each time with a theme that highlights an experience or passion. Gift cards, items, tickets, and décor are all part of each table – all for bidding in a silent auction by in-person and online guests.
Event Details
The 23rd annual luncheon will take place on September 29, 2023, at McGill Baptist Church, with Shoe Show serving as the Presenting Sponsor. The Festival of Tables offers attendees lunch from Dough Girls Catering and the opportunity to bid on various experiences throughout Cabarrus County. By attending and bidding on items gifted from our community, attendees directly contribute to the provision of vital healthcare services and medications for their neighbors in need.
History of the Community Free Clinic
Founded in 1994 by Dr. George Liles and Dr. David Lockhart, the Clinic is a safety net for our neighbors who have to decide on getting healthcare or paying bills. Since its humble beginnings, the Clinic has grown exponentially and now offers a comprehensive range of services.
Patients can get primary care, chronic disease management, access to an in-house lab, an onsite pharmacy, specialist care and referrals, as well as behavioral health support – all for free.
“Without us, our patients would not have access to healthcare and medications, and go to the ER for help,” said Executive Director Laura Lyerly Milliken. “We see people to help them be well so they can continue to work, live, and play in Cabarrus County.”
Over 30 years, the Community Free Clinic has had a positive impact on long-term patient health outcomes.
Why Participation is Critical
Funds from the Festival of Tables are needed more than ever before. This year, the clinic has seen a 41% increase in patients, highlighting the ongoing importance of community support. “In response to the increase in the cost of living, we’ve seen more people than ever before who cannot afford healthcare,” Lyerly Milliken said.
How Can You Get Involved?
Visit the Festival of Tables website to get involved with the event and support the Community Free Clinic. Sponsorship opportunities are also available on their website.
Attend the event:
- By purchasing a ticket, individuals can join the luncheon and contribute to the clinic’s fundraising efforts.
Become a Festival of Tables Table Host:
- As a host, you’ll purchase a table of eight seats for the luncheon. You can invite guests or ask them to contribute to the table’s donation. You have the option to personally decorate your table, with all decorations and centerpieces being auctioned off during the event. Alternatively, you can leave the decoration to the organizers, who will ensure your table is beautifully adorned to your chosen theme or a theme they select. All items for decoration need to be received at the Community Free Clinic by September 15.
Donate Auction Items:
- One of the highlights of the Festival of Tables is the silent auction. Consider donating a basket or auction items that reflect your business, interests, or favorite activities. Your contribution adds to the fundraising efforts and enhances the enjoyment of the event. Ideas for auction items can range from baskets and experiences to unique donations that reflect personal or business interests.
By contributing to the Festival of Tables and supporting their work, you directly contribute to keeping individuals out of emergency rooms and hospitals. The provision of medical care and medication to low-income neighbors promotes personal health and empowers individuals to care for themselves and their families. The impact ripples throughout the community, fostering a healthier and more vibrant Cabarrus County.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
