August 9, 2023
Healthcare access is an essential imperative for every person. Yet, it is disheartening that a substantial segment of our community is confronted with insufficient healthcare provisions. Despite the eligibility of many refugee immigrants for diverse federal and state benefits, these resources fall short in meeting the mounting healthcare requirements within our community. We have recognized several impediments to health access, notably the hindrance posed by language and educational barriers, obstructing families from grasping the vital measures to access healthcare services. Additionally, the gap widens due to the fragmented support from various organizations, each focusing on specific needs in the community.
Given these circumstances, the leadership of North Raleigh International Baptist Church formed collaborative partnerships with Duke University’s Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke Raleigh Hospital, the Women’s Missionary Union of North Carolina, and the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle. This coalition was established to extend healthcare services to our community within the Cedar Creek Apartment Complex.
The range of services offered encompassed educational programs and screenings for head and neck cancer, cholesterol and lifestyle-related diseases, as well as mental health assessments. We also facilitated sensitization on food preparation techniques and imparted knowledge about vegetable farming. In addition, we organized the distribution of clothing, food, and school supplies. To amplify the sense of community, we integrated games and recreational activities into the event, further enhanced by the participation of Summit Church members who orchestrated structured playtime with the children.
Our students and members of the church joined our volunteers to serve dozens of families in a great community event. This presented a huge learning opportunity for all involved.
“The beautiful thing about today is that we are learning from one another. Not a Ministry for and to, but with one another”
Pastor Patrick Warutere
We also enjoyed a talent show by children from the community who had a chance to showcase their different gifts and receive encouragement.
The horizon of enhancing healthcare access for our community through the church has expanded with the introduction of Duke University’s Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences’ Project Checkers.
Additionally, we are actively fostering communication with other partners to bring services even closer to the community that holds a profound place in our hearts.
We bless the Lord for many who prayed and gave of their time and look forward to greater opportunities of service in the near future.
North Raleigh International Baptist Church 