As of 2022, more than 25% of Fort Bend County residents did not make enough money to cover the basic cost of living, even though they were above the poverty line, according to a report from United Way Greater Houston.
A local organization is working to provide healthcare to that population, along with those living below the poverty line in Fort Bend and the surrounding region.
Last year, AccessHealth served about 20,000 patients. About half of them were uninsured, according to CEO Mike Dotson.
"We've been in the community for 50 years, so the bulk of the folks that come to us have either heard from a friend or a neighbor, or we've been the healthcare provider of choice in their family," he said.
The organization operates six health clinics, with five located in Fort Bend and one in Waller County. AccessHealth also operates 11 WIC centers, which run nutritional programs for pregnant women and families with infants and young children.
The nonprofit was recognized by the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce this year for its services in underprivileged parts of the county.
"It was a real honor to be even nominated or acknowledged for the work that we're doing," Dotson said.
AccessHealth provides care ranging from adult and family medicine to HIV and mental health services, along with dental work and a pharmacy.
The organization employs about 250 people, with an additional 20 staff members provided by Americorps.
The nonprofit also helps connect patients with food banks and is working on an initiative to partner with pro bono legal services for clients.
While AccessHealth receives a federal grant, much of its funding comes from private, charitable giving.