Safe Harbor Free Clinic (SHFC) began as the vision of medical providers and a group of community members who, when returning from a medical mission to Haiti, expressed concern that free medical care was not available to the underserved their own community.  They asked the question, "If free care can be provided in Haiti, why not at home?"  As a result, SHFC was founded in October 2008.  An enthusiastic group of volunteers formed a planning committee and set strategies in place.  The free medical walk-in clinic opened on June 19, 2009, just 8 months after beginning the quest. Medical care was offered the first and third Friday evenings of every month!  Since that time, comprehensive healthcare services have been provided to almost 18,000 under/uninsured individuals.

 

The need for care became so great that, in March 2011, the clinic began operating every Friday evening. Even after doubling the hours of availability, providers and volunteers understood the need was much greater than ever anticipated. Forty percent (40%) of patients seen struggled to manage their diabetes.  In response, our Chronic Care Clinic opened in May 2011.  Patients with diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol conditions could make an appointment.  Our Podiatry clinic soon followed and laboratory services were secured in September 2011.  

​

SHFC serves residents primarily from Snohomish, Skagit, and Island counties. Over 70,000 people have no access to affordable healthcare in these areas.  SHFC is the only "brick and mortar" free clinic between Seattle and the Canadian border. The clinic was initially housed in the Skagit Regional Clinic building in Stanwood. Due to the continued need for free healthcare, SHFC secured its own medical facility and opened the doors in August 2014.  With the support of over 110 volunteers and providers, our facility offers several specialty clinics in addition to our regular Same-Day clinics.   In 2022, Safe Harbor Free Clinic expanded its services to the neighboring community of Arlington/Smokey Point.

Together, we show Christ's love by providing free healthcare to those in need, bringing healing and hope for the hurting.