Florida Hospital hands the keys to Apopka CHC clinic

Community Health Center is recipient of 6,500 square foot building

The Community Health Center (CHC) has been in Apopka since 1972 when the West Orange Farmworkers Health Association was founded by local farm workers and consumer activists that saw the need to help the underprivileged in the area. 45 years later, CHC offers dental services, family medicine, OB-GYN, pharmacy and more in a pair of neighboring buildings. More than 5,000 children receive treatment at the pediatric clinic each year. CHC has given a lot to the residents of Apopka, but today it was time for them to receive.

CHC has given a lot to the residents of Apopka, but today it was time for them to receive.

This morning Florida Hospital gifted a 6,500-square-foot building housing a pediatric clinic to Community Health Centers, Inc. CHC has operated the clinic out of the building since 1996. By donating the building, Florida Hospital transfers an estimated $500,000 in assets to CHC.

“Today is a special day for us as we take ownership of these buildings from Florida Hospital," said Margaret Brennan, president, and CEO of Community Health Centers. “There’s a great need for the services we provide to the uninsured here in Apopka, and we’re glad that this building transfer will allow CHC to continue to carry out this crucial work.”

Florida Hospital Apopka Administrator Tim Cook added that access to health care is a key part of Florida Hospital’s mission.

“Ensuring people can get the care they need is part of our focus on whole-person health – treating the mind, body, and spirit,” Cook said. "When we talk about access... a symbol of access is a key," he said. "And access is also the key to good health care."

During the handover, which was attended by Apopka Mayor Joe Kilsheimer, Commissioner Diane Velazquez, and former City Commissioner Bill Arrowsmith, Cook gave Brennan a ceremonial key representing the transition in ownership.

“CHC has deep roots in Apopka," said Brennan. "And 45 years later we are still here. We thank Florida Hospital and the City of Apopka for its support. Together, we will continue to ensure all Apopkans have access to the medical care they need."