ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) – A local council member is stepping up to support a free medical clinic that serves uninsured and underinsured residents across Orangeburg and Calhoun counties.
Orangeburg County District 7 Councilwoman Latisha Walker donated $3,000 from her council salary to the Orangeburg–Calhoun Free Medical Clinic, which provides no-cost primary care to patients who otherwise may not have access to health services.
Clinic leaders say the demand for care remains high. In Orangeburg County alone, census data show more than 15,000 residents live below the poverty line, with nearly 9,600 people under the age of 65 lacking health insurance. In neighboring Calhoun County, more than 2,200 residents live in poverty, and over 1,500 are uninsured.
The clinic reports that it costs approximately $20,000 per month to operate. While recurring grants help cover some expenses, providers say community donations are often what keep the clinic running during months when funding falls short…