The effects of having low income may seem clear: less income means living a more simple, frugal way of life. The true picture of low income is far more complicated than that. Unfortunately it affects every aspect of life.

Low-income families often have inadequate housing (cramped and poor quality, exposure to mold or other hazards, etc). These living conditions often expose low-income families to increased health risks. 

Some Enlightening Statistics

About 25% of low-income families are faced with food insecurity, as well. This often means forgoing quality, whole-ingredient foods for their much cheaper, processed counterparts. A dollar burger and fries at a popular fast-food restaurant is much cheaper than making a quality meal of meat and vegetables at home. 

More than 40% of low-income families report worrying about their ability to pay their regularly monthly bills, such as rent, utilities, and transportation expenses that are necessary to get to work. All of these factors contribute to increased stress, which is a further health risk. 

In 2018, approximately 26% of low-income individuals were without health insurance, compared to only 4% of higher-income individuals. 23% of these lower-income individuals lacked a source of regular health care, and even more delayed preventative care due to lack of access or ability to pay for prescribed treatments. This lack of health care also equates to a lack of education concerning their health, their diet, and simple preventative measures they could take to change their overall health. 

At the same time, approximately 1/5 of low-income adults self-reported their health to be in fair or worse condition (compared to about 1/20 of higher-income adults); obesity was more prevalent, and serious mental health conditions presented seven times more often than in higher-income families.

HELPcare Foundation

HELPcare Foundation seeks to change these statistics in our communities. We recognize that simple access to quality preventative care and medication, as well as education on lifestyle and nutrition, can and does make an enormous difference in our health. We seek to meet low-income individuals where they are in their health journey, offering education and support, to work with them in changing their overall health. 

Our scholarship program has received and approved its first three applicants, and we are pleased to announce that these individuals are receiving the quality of care that will truly make a difference for them. Each scholarship client is investing an amount they can afford into their membership with the HELPcare Clinic, and HELPcare Foundation provides the difference. In order to offer this to more people as we grow, we are seeking the help of our community. 

You can help us help!

If you are able to partner with us in this, please know that your tax-deductible donation will assist in providing these scholarship funds for those in need within our community. This funding will also help us to offer health education to those who would otherwise not have access; we recognize that simple education regarding nutrition is often a key first step towards overall health! 

Tax-deductible donations can be dropped off at HELPcare Clinic, or mailed to: 

HELPcare Foundation 

c/o HELPcare Clinic 

308 4^th Ave NW 

Austin, MN  55912 

Or if it's more convenient for you, you can give to HELPcare Foundation online.

Thank you for your consideration! 

Update: Lee Aase and Linda LaVallie discussed HELPcare Foundation on KAUS AM 1480: